It shouldn’t be a big deal. All Billy's friends have visited the widow's house and each seemed to come away better for the experience. Visiting her has been a rite of passage for boys in town for as long as anyone can remember.

Billy knows he should want this. The whispers about him have been growing and even his friends are starting to ask questions. Tonight is the night if he's going to end the rumors. Should it matter if it’s Halloween and there’s a full moon in the sky?

Chapter 1

A cold wind whipped through the air as a group of guys huddled to catch their breath. A plastic bag fell hard on the ground followed by the sound of glass bottles clanging on a rock.

Tyler said, “Careful with the beer, dude.”

“Sorry.” Rocky said, gasping for air, “This climb is longer than I remember.”

Tyler nodded, “I forgot you missed our last visit.”

Rocky grabbed a bottle off the ground, popped off the cap, then took a long drink. “I had plans I couldn’t miss.” His grin spoke volumes.

Billy said, “You’re out of shape, dude. You spent the summer drinking and whoring. You missed half of our off-season football workouts. It's no wonder coach put you on the bench."

“Hey ... not cool, Bro!” Rocky gave a hurt look before deciding to change the subject and hand a bottle to Billy. “It’s time to make you a man.”

Symon laughed, “The widow will do that and more.”

The other boys joined in the laughter.

Billy took a small sip from his bottle, trying not to gag from the taste and failing. “I don’t know, guys.”

“No chickening out this time.” Tyler said, “You turned eighteen months ago. It’s time, bro.”

The others echoed. “It’s past time Billy…”

“It’s a night you’ll never forget.” Rocky said, mimicking a carnal act.

Billy shook his head. The widow had gained a legendary reputation in the community. Their group made their first trek up this hill in eighth grade, only daring to do it during daytime for years after. The place looked scarier at night, but the widow's door only opened at night. It had taken them the better part of an hour to get to this point. A look down the hill showed the entire south side of town.

The widow had two rules – you had to be at least eighteen years old to enter, and each boy was allowed a single visit.

Billy said, “This doesn’t feel right.”

“You can’t chicken out. She’s the most amazing woman I’ve ever seen. She taught me things that drive Melody wild… ” Billy noticed Rocky hadn't stopped gyrating his hips back and forth.

“Come on Billy.” Symon chimed in, “Do you want to be a virgin forever? You’ve got to be the last guy in our class who hasn’t gotten laid.”

“It’s possible.” Billy shrugged, giving his friends a thoughtful look. He knew they were looking out for him. To his knowledge the widow had never rejected any boy who followed the rules. Maybe he’d be the first. God knows he had issues.

Billy asked, “Isn’t she like fifty years old?”

“She’s not that old.” Quincy said, “I think she’s like thirty-five.”

“My Mom is thirty-nine.” Billy said, turning to face Quincy.

“I’d fuck your Mom.” Quincy replied without batting an eye.

“Dude…” Billy’s face turned sour, “You’re talking about my Mom.”

He turned to his other friends, hoping for backup. They looked at each other then chimed in as one… “Your Mom is hot.”

“Major MILF.”

“Seriously?” Billy shook his head then looked at Tyler, who hadn’t said a word. They’d met in elementary school and had been best friends ever since.

Tyler said, “You’re running out of time, man. You know the rules. More guys turn old enough to visit every week. Some wanted to come up here tonight but we scared them off. You know we can’t do that forever, it’s not fair to them so it's now or never, Billy.”

“I don’t know.” Billy wanted to run, but knew his friends would never let him hear the end of it if he chickened out.

Quincy spoke, “You gotta do it, man. I’m telling you … she’s amazing.”

Billy looked up the hill, “The house looks ancient.”

Rocky shook his head. “We’ve climbed all this way.”

Tyler took him by the arm and pulled him up the path towards the clearing near the bottom of the house’s crumbling steps. Tyler shouted loud enough so the others could hear, “You gotta do this…”

When they’d gotten enough distance, Tyler added in a whisper, “… guys are starting to talk. Don’t make it worse. Just go inside … she won’t force you to do anything. You can talk to her for a while and leave if that’s what you want. The others will never know.”

Billy said, “She’d let me do that?”

“She’ll let you do anything, Billy.” Tyler replied with a wink.

“Anything?” The thought of a woman’s bare breast flitted through Billy’s mind, the idea disappearing as quick as it appeared.

Tyler smiled. "Anything.”

Billy nodded his head as he struggled to come up with words. It wasn’t easy being different in a small town. His grandmother called him ‘sensitive’. His grandfather’s descriptions weren’t as kind.

His Mom and Dad acted like nothing was the matter. The kids at school weren’t nearly as kind. His four friends who accompanied him tonight weren’t shy with their questions but they’d been calling each other faggots for over a decade. It didn’t have the same sting coming from them.

“You promise it’s safe?”

“She’s amazing.”

Billy hated to disappoint Tyler and a trip ‘up the hill’ might dispel the rumors. Hell, it might even do him good. Billy put his foot on the first stair but stopped when he heard the cheers echoing from the underbrush.

Three grinning boys stared out from the thinning trees. “You promise she’s hot?”

“Dammit, Billy.” Tyler shook his head, “I told you she looks like the lady from your favorite comic book.”

Billy asked, “The Silver Fox?”

Tyler nodded, his mind looking lost in the memory. “Yeah…”

Rocky’s voice echoed through the nearby bushes. “I thought she looked like Miss Sheila.” The others broke from the cover of the trees to join them, “You know, the choir teacher with big tits?” Rocky closed his eyes and pretended as if he were groping her.

Tyler said, “We know Miss Sheila, Rocky. Every boy in school knows Miss Sheila.”

Quincy said, “I bet the widow finished off Rocky in two minutes.”

Rocky said, “Fuck off.”

Simon said, “I thought she looked like Quincy’s mom.”

Quincy said, “Dude!”

Billy listened as his friends’ arguments grew in crescendo as he looked up at the house. It looked small from town but up close and at night, it had all the vibes you’d find in a cheesy horror movie. And he couldn’t shake the feeling someone was watching him. To be honest, the place looked scary on the brightest of days. Coming up here on Halloween night was downright mental. It was Tyler who suggested he come up here on Halloween. He figured if Billy visited Widow’s Peak the night of Halloween, no one would ever dare to call him a pansy ever again.

The idea sounded great in bright comfort of the school lunchroom. Standing fifty feet from the front entrance was a different story. Cold autumn winds had scattered leaves around the entire crest of the hill. The trees themselves swayed back and forth and their groans sounded their warning to all who dared enter.

Billy said, “This is insane.”

Symon said, “You’re insane if you don’t go inside.” Rocky, Tyler, and Quincy nodded their assent.

Billy nodded. He’d come too far. He couldn’t back down. He looked at his friends. “How old is she again?”

“Seriously dude? She’s hot.” Tyler said, “I swear her closet is bigger than my house, and it’s full of a thousand outfits. She dressed in black leather for me. Maybe you’d prefer she wear spandex like in the comics?” Tyler smiled, “You strike me as the type who’d eat up that kinky shit.”

Rocky cried out, “It's time, Billy.” He tossed an empty beer bottle on the ground and picked a full one from inside the plastic bag. “I'll save you one so we can celebrate the loss of your virginity when you return.”

“Go on, Billy.” Symon said. “I’ll make sure Rocky doesn’t drink all the beer.”

“You gotta do it Billy. She’s amazing,” Quincy said, literally pushing Billy up two steps.

Billy climbed a few more steps, then looked back. Why was he afraid to take another step? All his friends had done this and come down the hill better for the experience. All of them had grown more confident in the past year. Hanging out with them was the only reason he wasn’t a total social pariah. Visiting the Widow's house would be good for his rep if nothing else.

Billy said, “You guys promise to wait?”

“We’ll wait.” Tyler opened a bottle. “We’ve got plenty of beer.”

Billy nodded at the group before turning around, “OK.”

He took a step and then another. As he climbed further, he heard the others chanting his name until the wind drowned out their voices as he got to the top. A final look back showed their smiling faces.

A woman grinned as she watched the scene below. A release of the latch opened the window so she could better feel the dying embers of the Hunter’s Moon.

Tonight’s encounter had been years in the making. All the arrangements were complete. If nothing else, time had taught her patience. A lone boy crept up the stairs.

“Come to me, Billy. It is destined you and I meet on a night like tonight.”

Chapter 2

October, 1915

The red vehicle flew down the dirt road, loud brakes announcing its presence as the car came to a stop in front of the school house. The young man behind the wheel smiled broadly as the others ran towards him. “What’s up ladies?” He jumped out of the car in a single bound, landing on both feet with a thud.

Tamsyn didn’t move as the others rushed to get a closer look at the brand new car. School started a few weeks earlier, and the older girls were sure to let her know the pecking order of the haves and have-nots. Tamsyn lived on the poor side of town, and as such, was a permanent member of the latter group.

The cute boy called out, “I just picked it up.” He removed his driving gloves and tossed them on the seat before giving everyone one of his infectious smiles. “The dealer in Nashville said this thing will do seventy miles per hour but I didn’t dare go over forty on the way back.”

Adam Driesen arrived first, “The car’s a beaut, Eddie. What’d you do with the Roadster?”

Eddie said, “Traded it in. Dad wouldn’t let me keep both. I hated to lose it, but I really wanted the Raceabout.”

Tamsyn shook her head as the girls pressed closer to make their presence known. Of course none of the girls dared get too close to the car lest they soil their dresses. Eddie smiled at them before sneaking a peek at the wall at the one girl who hadn’t moved.

His brief stare pinned Tamsyn against the wall as their eyes met. She tried to take a breath, finding it impossible he might be looking at her until reality intervened. A guy like Eddie McClary would never be interested in a girl like her.

Eddie said, “I’m thinking of taking her to the track this weekend.”

Shouts of encouragement and nods of approval resounded through the crowd, their pandering making such a ridiculous spectacle that it caused Tamsyn to laugh. At that exact moment, the crowd stopped talking and Tamsyn’s loud laugh echoed through the schoolyard.

The sound drew Eddie’s attention, and his stare shot past the others, again pinning Tamsyn against the wall. She stood horrified as the entire school turned to stare. Eddie asked, “What’s so funny, dollface?”

It took Tamsyn a second to realize Eddie was speaking to her. She only knew him by reputation. Everyone in town knew the cocky boy with an infectious smile. She pointed at herself. “Me?”

Eddie nodded, “You’re the one laughing.”

Tamsyn took a deep breath when she saw the crowd begin to nod. “I didn’t mean anything.”

Eddie asked, “So why did you laugh?”

Tamsyn could feel the stares of her classmates digging into her skin, “I don’t know.”

Eddie grabbed his gloves, putting one on each hand before grabbing two pairs of goggles. “Don’t you think I can keep up with the older guys at the race track?”

Tamsyn said, “I didn’t…” The words caught in Tamsyn’s throat, her intention misconstrued.

Eddie pulled one set of goggles over his face, then dangled the other pair in Tamsyn’s direction. “Maybe you’d like me to show you?”

“My mother won’t…” The popular girls wore pretty plaid dresses from Miller’s Department store and all of them were laughing. Tamsyn pulled up her homespun dress before taking a halting first step, followed by a second with more conviction. The crowd parted as she took a third before stopping to give a sheepish answer. “... maybe I will.”

Eddie smiled, clearly enjoying Tamsyn’s discomfort. “Is that a yes?”

Tamsyn didn’t say a word as she continued her march down the steps of the schoolhouse. Eddie run to the passenger door before her, opening it before she arrived and holding up the pair of googles. “You’ll need these.”

Eddie didn’t release her hand as she took them, causing Tamsyn blush as pulled on the hems of her school dress to take a seat. Murmurs from the crowd grew loud as Eddie raced to the other side and jumped inside with the grace of the school’s best athlete.

The comments from the crowd increased as Eddie adjusted his gloves, the loudest unkind but not unexpected. Eddie spoke under his breath. “Ignore them.”

Tamsyn nodded as she pulled the goggles over her head, catching quite a few hairs in the leather straps as she pulled it tight. Sounds of the crowd fell away as Adam helped Eddie crank the engine. Tamsyn didn’t dare respond, not trusting her voice. She managed a simple nod, bringing another smile to Eddie’s face.

Second later the car took off without warning, leaving a cloud of dust in its wake. Wheels bounded down the uneven street as the car continued to accelerate. Tamsyn grabbed her seat tight, praying she wouldn't fall out.

Eddie smiled. “Afraid? Want me to stop?”

Tamsyn shook her head. There was no way she was going to let this cocky boy win.

Eddie drove the car faster, shouting through the open air in order to be heard. “How fast do you think we’re going?”
Tamsyn shook her head. She had no idea.

Eddie smiled as he slowed as the car came to an intersection. “You aren’t much of a talker, are you?”

Tamsyn shook her head.

“The thing is…” Eddie smile grew bigger. “… I know those other girls would never dare to get in this car. They’re all afraid of dirtying their pretty dresses, or mussing their well-coiffed hair. They worry too much about the things people might say.” Eddie paused, “Have you ridden in many cars?”

Tamsyn willed herself to speak. “First time.”

“Even better.” Eddie beamed. “I knew you were different from the others. I knew it the first time I saw you.”

Tamsyn let out a nervous laugh. “You know me?”

“Of course I know you, you are Tamsyn Forester.”

Tamsyn did a double take. “You know my name?”

Eddie slowed the car and let it drift to the side of the road. “Why wouldn’t I know the name of the prettiest girl in the county?”
Tamsyn could feel her face growing bright red, but couldn’t think of anything to say.

Eddie said, “Twenty-five miles per hour.”

Tamsyn said, “What?”

Eddie said, “That’s how fast we were going. Twenty-five miles per hour. It’s not so fast. Racehorses can run way faster than that.”

Tamsyn admitted, “I’ve never ridden a horse.”

“Really?” Eddie paused a second before continuing. “Racehorses max out at around forty-five miles per hour. I was hoping to top that today, if you’re up to it.” Eddie grinned.

“Huh?”

“You have a choice, Tamsyn. We can turn around and go back to the school. Or … there’s a smooth section up the road a bit where I can really let this thing go. I’m hoping to get it above forty-five. You up for it?”

Tamsyn took a deep breath and pulled off the goggles. A feeling of calm overtook her as she yanked out few strands of her raven-black hair that had gotten caught in the leather straps. “I must look a mess.”

“You look amazing to me.” Eddie removed his own goggles, his smile gone, replaced by a serious look. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen a more beautiful girl in my life. If you want … maybe we could go on a real date sometime.”

Tamsyn tried not to react but knew she failed. “My Mom … she won’t …”

“I know, I know all about you, Tamsyn.” Eddie said, “And I know about your Mom’s rules. No dating until you’re sixteen. I’m willing to wait.”

Words scrambled Tamsyn’s thought but instead of drawing inward she found herself screaming out loud. “Aiiiieeeeeee!” When her shout grew silent the absurdity of the situation caused her to laugh.

Eddie asked, “Is that a yes?”

“Yes. That’s a yes” Tamsyn took a deep breath before again pulling the goggles over her head. “Show me how fast this thing can go.”

Eddie smiled as he shifted the car into gear. “Now you’re talking.”

Chapter 3

Cold winds pressed at Billy as he climbed the final steps. The house’s exterior looked worse the closer he got. Paint peeling off the walls and grime covering everything. The porch wasn’t in great shape either. Several missing boards forced Billy to tread a careful path across the expanse.

He took a deep breath before knocking three times as instructed. Relief settled over him when he got no response. A look back showed no sign of his friends. He gave a brief thought of hiding out on the porch for the next hour then remembered Rocky’s binoculars. His friend talked all the way up the hill of his plan to catch another glimpse of the widow. No doubt Rocky or one of the others had the binos locked on him right now.

A second set of knocks was met with no response so Billy decided to turn the knob and found the door opened easy. He could only imagine what his friends were saying as he entered. He had no doubt it involved the clinking of beer bottles.

**BAM**

The door slammed shut as soon as Billy entered. “Gotta be the wind.” Billy said, expecting no answer.

“It is quite drafty tonight.” The woman's voice caused Billy to jump drawing the sound of laughter. “Put your coat on the hanger next to the door then come and join me in the dining room.”

Billy looked around the corner to try to find the source of the voice but saw no one, “The dining room?” This time he got no answer.

After hanging up his coat as instructed, Billy followed the short hall and into the main room. Twin staircases rose high to both sides of a large open area. Twenty-foot walls line both sides with a railing above and rooms lining both sides though it was hard to see as the only light in the room came from a huge chandelier full of candles in the middle of the room. Antiques furniture filled the room, most of it looked to be in mint condition.

The woman's voice echoed, “My husband and I decorated this place a long time ago. I’m sure it looks old-fashioned to a young man like yourself, but he liked it well enough and I’ve never desired to change things.”

Billy’s eyes searched the room, still unable to find the source.

“You’ve almost made it. The entrance to the dining room is next to the long-case clock.”

An antique clock stood next to an open door. A peek around the corner showed a long dining table filling the entirety of the room. Near the middle sat a woman wearing a long red cloak and two place settings.

Billy’s voice caught in his throat when he saw her, the words coming out in a tone closer to a whisper, “Hello?”

The woman didn’t look up. “I’m happy to see you found the room in a timely fashion. Some boys spend an hour exploring the place before coming to see me. This gives us more time together.”

Billy tried to see the woman’s face, but couldn’t see anything behind the thick hood. He looked again as he passed her chair, but didn’t have success the second time either.

“Cat got your tongue?”

Billy fumbled for words, realizing his friends never mentioned the woman’s name. The people in town had their own names for this woman, but none would be proper to utter in her presence.

“I assume … are you widow? … oh I’m sorry … I didn’t mean ...”

The woman laughed at Billy's response, her southern lilt sounding younger than he expected.

“Are you asking if I am the Widow McClary?” Her voice sounded pained as she continued. “I ask my friends call to me by my given name, Tamsyn. Tamsyn McClary. Can I count you among my friends, Billy?”

Billy nodded, “Uhh … yes ma’am … uhh … I mean yes Tamsyn.”

Tamsyn spoke as if she’d heard a funny joke. “Is it OK if I refer to you as Billy? Your friend Tyler told me you go by Billy during his visit."

Billy asked, "Tyler talked about me?"

"Your friend and I spoke about many things. Or would you prefer I call you William? Isn’t that what your mother calls you?”

“Billy is fine, ma’am.” Billy swallowed hard. This Tamsyn woman knew a lot about him.

“Please call me Tamsyn. The word ma'am makes me feel very, very old.”

“Yes ma’ … err … yes … um … I mean Tamsyn.”

Tamsyn laughed out loud this time. “I prepared roast chicken for tonight’s meal. I hope that choice is amenable.”

“Yes.” Billy smiled back, glad to be changing the subject. “I like chicken.”

"Of course you do. All growing boys need lots of protein." Billy heard the sound of a small bell. Seconds later, a large man entered the room balancing a large silver tray in one hand. He set it on the table with a practiced air.

“This is Gunther. He’s my butler, among other things.” Tamsyn pointed at Billy with a long painted fingernail. “Gunther, this is my friend, Billy.”
The tall man grunted as he backed out of the room.

“Dig in, Billy. You’ll need all the energy you can muster to get through this night.”

The comment caught Billy off guard. “What?”

The widow looked happy as she watched Billy's face redden again.

Billy said, “I … don’t understand.”

Tamsyn asked, “What’s wrong?”

Billy took a deep breath. “The other guys didn’t mention dinner.”

“You find dinner confusing?” Tamsyn was clearly enjoying herself. “I suspect your friends didn’t tell you many things about their visits with me. Did Symon tell you about his scream when he saw Gunther for the first time? Did Quincy tell you how he hid in the coat closet for five minutes after entering the foyer?”

“No ma’am … I mean … no … Tamsyn.” Billy corrected.

Tamsyn said, “Boys your age are such wonderful little scamps. You all have so much energy and desires. Testosterone practically drips from your pores but you have little knowledge how to use it. I can show you things beyond your greatest desires but first you must build up your strength.”

A growing discomfort built in Billy’s belly, “I guess I could eat.”

“I made plenty. Eat as much as you’d like.”

Billy’s stomach growled when he looked at the stacks of food. It seemed he’d built quite an appetite on the trip up the mountain. There was more food here than any one person could eat, not even Rocky. It was too bad his friends couldn’t share in this feast but then again, none of them had shared with him on their visits.

Billy used tongs to grab three slices of chicken breast, then scooped a heap of potatoes onto his plate. He covered the whole thing with juices from the gravy boat.

Billy said, “I love mashed potatoes and gravy.”

“Most boys your age do. Growing bodies need lots of food. Would you care for some wine?” She clapped her hands twice. “Gunther. Bring the boy some wine.”

Billy shook his head as he shoveled a heap of mashed potatoes into his mouth, “No thanks, ma’am.” He saw the woman turn and quickly added. “I mean Tamsyn.”

Tamsyn smiled, “No wine?”

“No, thanks. I don’t drink.”

“You don’t drink, or you’ve never had a chance drink?” She raised a quarter-full glass to her hood, then placed it half empty back on the table a few seconds later. “Not once?”

“I’ve drank beer with my friends a couple of times.” Billy smiled, “I don’t like the taste.”

“Wine isn’t beer, Billy. Have you considered you might have a more discerning palate than beer out of a bottle?” She motioned her hand at Gunther who poured a small amount of wine into a glass. “Take a sip.”

Tamsyn motioned again, and Gunther filled both glasses almost to the top.

Billy stared at the glass of wine. “Aren’t you worried about getting in trouble? You’re an older woman plying a high schooler with alcohol?”

“I doubt anything would affect my reputation.” Tamsyn laughed, “And besides, I won’t tell if you don’t tell. You act as if you and your friends weren’t drinking beer in my woods before you came here. We’re constantly cleaning up bottles in the woods from the parties your schoolmates love to have in my woods. Isn’t that right, Gunther?”

Tamsyn looked at Gunther and Billy did the same. The man gave a grunt of annoyance, but continued to stare straight ahead.

Tamsyn grinned, “Are you sure you don’t want to try a little sip of wine? If you don’t like it, I will get you something else. Sparkling water perhaps?”

Billy shrugged, “That’s fair.” He raised the glass to his lips and let a little wine enter his mouth.

Tamsyn asked, “What do you taste?”

Billy swallowed hard as she spoke. “Grape juice? It reminds me of church.”

Tamsyn smiled. “Try drinking it slower. Let the wine enter your mouth but this time try to savor the aroma.”

Billy took another drink and held his breath.

Tamsyn asked, “Close your eyes. What do you smell? What do you taste?”

Billy shrugged, “I smell flowers. Roses, maybe?” He swallowed some as the warmth trickled down the back of his throat, “with a hint of cherry?”
“That’s very good Billy. You have a gift for wine. That’s not true for everyone.”

“It’s not?” he brightened.

“I doubt any of your friends would do so well.”

Billy smiled, “They wouldn’t? Did you give them the same test?”

“I wouldn’t waste my wine on them. Boys like your friends could not tell the difference. I’ve always had an eye for those with talent.”
Billy took another taste from his glass, a larger drink this time, but not too big. He did not want to offend his host by gulping it down. Warmth drifted to his extremities.

“Uhh…” Billy’s words became bolder. “Why do you wear that cloak?”

Tamsyn said, “It gets cold in this house. It doesn’t matter how many fires we light in the hearths, there are always cold spots.”
Billy asked, “Is that why you wear the hood over your face?”

“My … my … Billy … in vino veritas … one sip of wine and you’re full of questions.” Billy heard a soft giggle from under the hood, the sound of a surprising tenderness in her voice. “Do you worry about my face? Have the other boys called me ugly?”

“No … no…” Billy stammer, finding himself on the defensive. “It’s not that.”

Tamsyn seemed to be enjoying herself, “Did they call me old and fat?”

Billy shook his head, trying to think, “No. Not at all. They said nice things about you. It’s …”

Tamsyn said, “You wonder why I hide my face?”

“Yes.” Billy bit his lip as he said the word. “I'm sorry.”

He could hear the disappointment in Tamsyn's voice, “I forget how you boys lack the patience that comes with age. Would you like to see what I look like? Do you want to see if the climb was worth the effort?”

"It's not that.” Billy shook his head and did his best to salvage the situation. “It’s just … I don’t know. It’s hard to talk to someone when you can't look them in the eye."

“That’s a lie, Billy… ” Tamsyn’s eyes flashed through the darkness of her hood. “... but it’s a clever lie. The truth is I like to talk to my guests before choosing my outfit. Underneath my cloak hides unbrushed hair, an unpainted face, and a simple nightgown and I’d rather you not see me until I am ready.”

“Oh.”

“But since you asked, I will comply.” Tamsyn pulled off her hood to reveal a mass of blonde hair obscuring two blue eyes and a perfect little mouth. Billy found it hard to speak.

“Am I hideous?”

“Uhh...”

“You think I’m old. And fat. And ugly.” Her smile told she knew none of this was true.

“No. Not at all. You look different than I expected.”

Tamsyn said, “Don’t you like me?”

“No, it’s not that either.” Billy smiled. “I was expecting someone older. Aren’t you a widow?”

Tamsyn didn’t look a day over twenty-five. Maybe younger.

“I married young. I was twenty-two years old when my husband died.”

Billy shook his head. He’d be twenty-two in four years. “I can’t imagine getting married any time soon.”

“We married when I was seventeen, far sooner than I ever expected but it wasn’t like I had much choice.” Tamsyn smiled, “I was young and loved my husband every day until fate intervened. We did better than most with the time we had together.”

“I’m so sorry.”

“You have nothing to feel sorry about … would you like to hear our story?”

As Tamsyn spoke, a cold chill pressed on Billy’s skin and a shiver ran up his spine causing him to shake his head. He already knew more than he wanted to know. This woman was a widow and had slept with dozens, maybe hundreds of men. “No, thank you, ma’am …” Billy corrected himself, “...I mean, no thank you, Tamsyn.”

Tamsyn’s face brightened, “Of course, you’re right. We don’t have time to spend on my old boring stories.”
Billy watched as Tamsyn looked lost in thought. He used the opportunity to lift two more slices of chicken breast into his mouth.

“Is the food to your liking?”

Billy chewed twice before swallowing then washed it down with a gulp of wine. “It’s good. It tastes like my Mom’s, but don’t tell her I said that.”

Tamsyn asked, “Do you expect your mother and I will be talking any time soon?”

Billy nearly choked on a piece of chicken before laughing out loud, “I suppose not.” He tried to imagine his Mom speaking to this woman, the notorious vixen the women in town named - “The Whore on the Hill’. The last thing he needed was for his Mom to find out about this visit. The longer thought about it, the funnier it seemed. Billy started to giggle.

Tamsyn said, “I think you’ve drank enough wine.”

Billy saw he’d emptied another glass. “I like wine more than I expected.”

Tamsyn said, “That is good wine. You’d be shocked how much I paid for this bottle but it’s important to learn how to savor the good things in life. You never know when the good times will end."

Billy spoke without thinking, “There’s a lot of things in my life I wish I could forget.”

“That is true of us all, Billy.” Tamsyn shot a look towards Gunther. “Now that introductions are over, it is time for me to go upstairs and change into a proper attire.”

Billy covered his mouth with a hand but couldn’t stop laughing. The wine really did taste like grape juice. Was he drunk? Is this what it felt like to be drunk?

“You’re very pretty, Tamsyn.” The words popped out of Billy’s mouth before knew he’d spoken.

“Thank you, Billy.” She looked to Gunther who took the wine glass both wine glasses and the decanter. He left and returned with a pitcher of sparkling water.

Billy stared at Tamsyn as she walked from the room. His friend’s descriptions didn’t do the woman justice. Their discussions focused on her tits and ass and it wasn’t like Billy didn’t like tits and ass. He’d spent afternoons looking at picture after picture of girls, especially girls with big tits. He’d watched in quiet frustration as the girls at his school developed and noticed little things the other guys missed. Their images called to him, their pretty hair, their well made-up faces, their sultry voices that sung a siren’s song. Most nights he dreamed of getting with a girl who had the total package. Tamsyn had everything he’d dreamed about and more.

Gunther stood at the other end of the room as Tamsyn exited the room. Billy waited a minute before addressing the large man, “Do you think Tamysn’s pretty?”

Gunther didn’t move or speak but continued to stare straight ahead. Billy scooped another helping of potatoes onto his plate, covered them with gravy, then took a big bite. Tamsyn appeared to be a good cook as well.

Tamsyn climbed the stairs as if she were floating on air. She loved visitors, especially on special nights. The red cloak fell to the ground with nary a shiver, revealing her naked body, an object of desire some men claimed they will kill to possess. A look in the mirror showed a perfect set of teeth smiling back.

“If the gossip-mongers could see me now, it might have quieted some of those ugly hags.”

Or more likely reinforce their beliefs. Tamsyn laughed. It had been many years since she’d cared about such things.

The open door to her closet revealed a thousand outfits. She had everything she’d always wanted, but the loss of the one thing she’d loved the most allowed society to shun her many years ago. She spent most nights alone in her nakedness, but tonight called for a special outfit and a boy like Billy deserved the best. She tore through the garments until finding a perfect combo. She knew Billy would like what he saw.

Chapter 4

April, 1917

*** The United States is at WAR with Germany! President Wilson signs War Resolution. ***

The news came to town by telegraph then spread by word of mouth. Boys from all over the county joined in with the shouting mob at the town’s square. Soon after most of them jumped into cars and headed for the recruiting station in Nashville. Tamsyn waited at the kitchen table all afternoon, waiting for the tell-tale sound of Eddie's Raceabout.

She didn't move when the car arrived. Eddie's father had stood watch in the driveway all day.

"What the hell did you do, Eddie?"

"We signed up … all of us joined the 3rd Tennessee."

“Stupid son of…” Mr. McClary shouted his response, "You stupid ... stupid boy."

Tamsyn listened to the exchange as Eddie's mother drank sip after sip of bourbon on the other side of the kitchen table.

A loud bang announced Eddie had entered. "Did you hear the news, Tamsyn? I joined the army."

Tamsyn tried her best to smile. Everyone had seen the stories in the newspaper about the war in Europe, but most people never paid them much mind until America declared war. Someone at school said the the British had lost 50,000 men in a single day at the battle of the Somme. 50,000 on one day and now the war was about to enter its third year. It took every bit of Tamsyn's strength to hold back tears.

"I heard."

Eddie got on one knee and held out a ring. "I wanna get married."

Tamsyn closed her eyes, now feeling safe to release a torrent of tears. She'd thought about this day for years, and now it seemed like a nightmare.

Eddie asked, "Was that a yes?"

Tamsyn wiped her eyes before nodding and giving a dutiful, "Yes."

She saw Eddie’s father in the hallway shaking his head. Tamsyn gave him a look and then looked back to Eddie. She’d never seen either of them so worked up.

“I’ll make some calls.” Eddie’s father’s voice sounded frantic, “I can get you out of this.”

Eddie shook his head, "We don’t have a lot of time to get everything done. The train leaves for the staging area in North Carolina in a few weeks so I’ll need to leave for Nashville soon. I expect we have two weeks, maybe less so we’ll go to the courthouse tomorrow and get the marriage paperwork started. I’m sure there’s going to be a long line so we’ll get up early. We need to talk to Preacher Stevens at some point tomorrow as well. That poor man is going to have to perform a year’s worth of marriages in a week but I’m sure we can figure something out."
Eddie gave his mother a reassuring smile before turning more serious as his eyes met his father’s. His smile returned when he turned to Tamsyn.

“Everything is going to be okay. I promise.” He gave Tamsyn a kiss on her cheek then turned to go. “I need to start packing.” The group watch Eddie run out of the kitchen and up the stairs.

Tamsyn saw Eddie’s father hug his wife as soon as their son exited the room. Neither spoke nor lessened their embrace as Tamsyn excused herself. This wasn't how she imagined beginning her future with Eddie but for the past few years she knew one thing to be true. She loved him with all her heart. She’d known it from the first time they'd met.

Tamsyn looked outside at the waiting crowd but found she couldn’t move.

The boys looked amazing lined up in their uniforms.. Their soon-to-be wives stood next to them wearing the best dresses Miller's Department Store had to offer. Eddie had spared no expense on Tamsyn's outfit. Her dress came from a specialty shop in Nashville, a beautiful white dress made special for a wedding with ruffles and a train that could rival a queen. The hairdresser spent two hours fixing her hair. Her makeup girl took another hour.

"How do I look?"

Both mothers stared at Tamsyn with tears in their eyes. Tamsyn’s mother’s eyes were filled with pride. Tamsyn knew the tears dotting Eddie's Mom's face weren't due to joy.

Tamsyn's mother gave her a hug, "I can scarcely believe you're my daughter."

Tamsyn shook her head. "Be careful, Momma. They sewed me into this thing. I’m not sure I can take a step."

Tamsyn attempted to move again, her body squeezed in chain armor made of thread and lace. Eddie had gifted her many pretty dresses since they’d started dating but this outfit was next level.

"Can you help me to the door? I think I might topple over if I try to move inside all this fabric."

Tamsyn's Mom took one hand and picked up one side of her daughter’s train. Eddie's Mom rolled her eyes, but did the same. The three women exited the dressing room together as every eye in the county turned to face them.

Tamsyn knew what most of them said about her, but she didn't care. Eddie loved her. Her heart skipped a beat when she saw his smiling face standing beside the altar, his new officer's uniform a beacon among the drab uniforms of his enlisted friends.. Everyone stood as the music began to play.

Tamsyn said, "I love you."

"I love you too."

It wasn't the first time they'd said the words, but it was the first time Tamsyn knew the depth of her feelings. Unspoken fear gripped her as they traveled down the road. She dreamt of this night for years and it had arrived, years before she’d ever expected. A look behind them show their friends’ cars following in a single line, the entire group headed for the hotel on the big hill at the south end of town.

Eddie always liked to drive fast, but his car seemed to move faster as the wind whipped Tamsyn’s hair into a frenzied mess. About halfway up the hill her train took flight, following behind like a cape until the ribbons which held it fast let go allowing it to fly off into the wind. Members of the hotel staff stood in a line at their approach, grabbing their bags as soon as the car came to a stop.

Tamsyn found it impossible to stand even without her train, so Eddie picked her up instead, and carried her inside.

“Give me a chance to undress, Eddie.”

“I don’t want to wait.” Tamsyn saw Eddie’s were fixed on her chest. She watched as he unbuttoned his pants and sat up, unsure what else to do. Eddie didn’t have this same problem, his hands attacked her chest causing a tickle to shoot down Tamsyn’s spine followed by a moan as Eddie kissed her.

“Give me a chance to get undressed Eddie.”

“How do you take this damned thing off?”

Eddie’s hands continued their attention on Tamsyn’s breasts, caressing the area much longer than she expected.

“You won’t get my dress off that way. The ties are in the back.” Her body seemed to melt at Eddie’s touch, her body both afraid and aching for more.

“My god… there must be a thousand buttons and ribbons back here.”

Tamsyn said, “Now you know why it took me so long to get ready.”

Eddie shouted, “I’ve got an idea.”

A second later Tamsyn felt herself able to take a first deep breath in hours. “What did you do?”

Eddie grinned. “Did you know officer dress uniforms come with a knife and scabbard?”

“You didn’t.”

“I did.”

“Your mother is going to kill you.”

“It’s not my mother’s dress. This dress belongs to Mrs. Edward McClary.” He smiled and kissed Tamsyn, this time full on the lips.

Tamsyn pulled away. “Then I’m going to kill you.” Tamsyn took a deep breath when she realized the import of Eddie’s words. Mrs. Edward McClary. The name had a nice ring even if it sounded foreign to her ears. She couldn’t imagine a time when she would respond naturally to the name. “It is nice to be able to breathe again.”

Eddie flipped Tamysn over, pinning her to the bed as he pulled down the front of her wedding dress to reveal her breasts. “Worth every penny.”

Tamsyn said, “Hey!”

Eddie leaned forward to kiss Tamsyn’s silk camisole. His hot breath penetrated the flimsy fabric, sending a jolt through her body, and curling her toes.

Tamsyn slapped him. “Stop that.”

“Really?” Eddie stopped and held her hand. "You want me to stop?"

“No.”

“Are you nervous?”

Tamsyn nodded. "A little."

Tamsyn felt a few tears fall from her eye. She’d always felt safe in Eddie’s arms and knew he’d never hurt her. Some of her friends had already had sex this but she and Eddie had waited. There were rules about these things, but now … she and Eddie were man and wife. She’d promised to love, honor, cherish, and obey him and.as man and wife, they were expected to have sex.

Eddie removed his shirt to reveal a well-defined set of muscles.

“I promise to be gentle.”

“Let me up.” Tamsyn asked, “I need to take my dress off the proper way.”

Eddie shook his head, pulling on the garment, sliding it down past Tamsyn’s waist. “You don’t know how long I’ve dreamed seeing of you, Tamysn. You’ve driven me mad.” His hands came to rest on the fabric covering Tamsyn’s chest. “I can’t believe these belong to me now.”

Tamsyn smiled. “There’s a lot more to me than those you know.”

“I know.” Eddie pulled at the dress, his blade cutting through the remaining material until Tamsyn lay naked save for a camisole and a pair of drawers. With the job at hand done, Eddie pulled off his shirt.

Eddie asked, “Where were we?”

Tamsyn said, “You promised to be gentle then pulled out a knife.”

Tamsyn saw Eddie’s focus relent when his eyes saw her bare chest for the first time. Tonight wasn’t the first time he’d fondled her, but until this night a barrier of cloth had always separated them. Eddie pulled himself close, his nipples pressed about her own, their shared body heat causing heat to form elsewhere. She had no idea how to proceed, but found carnal urgency to be its own teacher.

Tamsyn fell back into bed, her body turning to mush from each of her husband’s touches. They’d driven each other mad for years and tonight they’d finally achieve release. She knew she was lucky. Eddie wasn’t like the other guys. He’d never acted on his impulses, insisting he and Tamsyn not fall prey to their lusts when desire made her feel weak.

When Eddie touched her again, Tamsyn found she couldn’t restrain a moan. Upon hearing the sound, Eddie bolted up in the bed, his attention returning to her chest while pulling her close to give a chaste kiss. “Since the day we met, you've understood me better than anyone in the world and tonight we are bound together for better or worse...”

Chapter 5

“Tamsyn?” Billy called out of the dining room when he finished eating. The wine made it difficult to stand, but the walk wasn’t far..

A familiar voice answered, “I’m in here.”

Tamsyn stood next to a most uncomfortable looking couch, her red cloak gone. She’d combed her hair, now fixed it in place with the use of a silver-colored netting. Black feathers attached to the netting covered one side of her head, adding to the mystique. The rest of her outfit matched the headpiece. Silver straps lined both shoulders marking a path to the black dress below. Silver frays hung beneath giving momentary glimpses of the black undergarments below. There, a pair of translucent black stockings ran down shapely legs to her feet. Black four-inch heels sparkled from encrusted white gems.

“What do you think?”

Billy gulped, “You look amazing.”

Tamsyn drew on the black cigarette holder and blew smoke to one side, “Did your friends tell you I like to dress up? I’ve been saving this outfit for someone special. I hope you like it.”

"It's amazing. What is it?"

"Flapper attire. Early 1920s. This isn’t a knockoff. This outfit is over a hundred years old."

“Really?”

Billy found himself an inch shorter than Tamsyn in her high heels, but couldn’t stop staring at her face. It was so … perfect. Lines of purplish-black makeup coated both eyes with a border a half inch thick and no hint of moderation. Silver sparkles dotted both eyelids making them shine each time Tamsyn blinked. Some might call the look gothic, but red lipstick and blonde hair betrayed that description.

Tamsyn spoke first, “You aren’t saying anything.”

Billy struggled for words, “I didn’t know you smoked.”

“I know I shouldn’t. It’s a nasty habit I picked up and I’ve never been able to stop.” Billy watched as Tamsyn drew deep then exhaled a white plume of smoke.

Billy said, “My Mom smokes.”

“She does?”

“Not so much now, but she did when I was little. I keep telling her to quit. She keeps promising, but I don’t think she will.”

Tamsyn asked, “Have you ever tried it?”

“No.” Billy shook his head. “Nobody my age smokes anymore.”

“That’s not true.” Tamsyn laughed, “I see all you kids coming to my woods to smoke pot. Then there’s vapes. Don’t all kids your age vape?”

Billy smiled. Rocky had been spending more time with the stoners lately. And vape pens were present every time he used the school’s bathroom.

“Those aren’t the same.”

“If you say so.” Tamsyn drew on her cigarette again and blew the smoke to the side. “Come and sit next to me. I promise I won’t bite.” She smiled then pursed her lips in a way that shook Billy to the core. “At least, I promise not to bite so soon.”

Her giggle made Billy’s knees go weak, his heart pounding in his chest as he made his way to Tamsyn. She was so friendly, yet it almost hurt to look at her for too long. He left a gap between them as he sat.

“My … my … Billy is such a shy boy. Not like the others. Are you sure you want to do this? You don’t have to visit my bedroom.”

Billy nodded, “I know.”

“Do you find me attractive?”

“That’s a silly question.” Billy frowned. “Only an idiot would find you unattractive.”

“Then why so shy?”

“I don’t know.”

“Girls like boys who take charge.” Tamsyn said, “I remember my first night. I was so scared but my Eddie took care of everything.”

“I’m not scared.”

Tamsyn placed her hand on top of Billy’s. Billy jumped as he pulled away. Tamsyn said, “Not scared, huh?”

“It’s not that.” Bill felt his face redden, “I might be a bit nervous.”

Tamsyn gave a look of sympathy. “Would it surprise you to know that most of the guys that visit me aren’t much different than you? Rocky was way worse …”

Billy found his voice. “Rocky? No way.” He shook his head, “He’s been having sex for years. His first was Karen Murphy under the bleachers in 8th grade.”

Tamsyn said, “You mean he ruined an innocent girl’s reputation? I know a virgin when I sleep with one.”

“Rocky? A virgin?” Billy laughed.

Tamsyn raised her right hand. “I promise you.”

She placed her hand on top of Billy’s but this time he was ready. He gave a shy smile but didn't pull away.

Billy said, “Karen and I used to be friends. She hangs out with a different crowd now.”

“Did she ever talk to you about Rocky's claim?”

Billy said, “No. I was too embarrassed to ask.”

“I’m sure Karen was more embarrassed. A bad reputation sticks to a girl once it is cast and almost impossible to end once the rumors start.” Tamsyn gave a far off look, "I’ve known many boys like Rocky. They hide their insecurities with bravado, never caring if they ruin a girl’s reputation in the process.”

“Does it bother you?”

Tamsyn said, "What do you mean?"

Billy’s mind scrambled for an answer, “I mean … the stories say you want us boys to visit. You have to know the names people call you.”

“Like what?”

Billy shook his head. “I’m not repeating them.”

“Come on.” Tamsyn pleaded, “Tell me.”

Billy shrugged, “The Whore on the Hill.”

Tamsyn answered, with a voice full of hurt. “Do you think I'm a whore?”

“No.” Billy stared at Tamsyn’s face and saw a sadness he could scarcely fathom. “I’m sorry. Was that rude? I’m sorry.”

Tamsyn watched Billy squirm a couple of moments before starting to giggle. “I’m teasing you Billy. You’re right, I don’t care what anyone says.” She jumped from her seat. “Would you care to dance?”

“I guess.” His mind was spinning. Was it possible Rocky was a virgin before coming to this place? He'd been telling the story about Karen for years.

Tamsyn helped Billy to his feet. “I think my wine did a number on you. Are you ok to stand?”

“Yeah,” Billy lied.

She led him to an open area in the common room. The music started as soon as they stepped on the wooden floor.

“Are you ready?”

Billy said, “I’ve never danced before.”

Tamsyn instructed, “Put your hand on mine. Put the other on my hip and follow my lead. This is a simple box step. Count with me. One – two – three. One – two – three.”

Billy did his best to follow as he looked at his feet.

Tamsyn ordered, “Eyes forward. Look at me.”

Billy mouthed the words as his feet tried to follow. One – two – three. One – two – three. He felt Tamsyn pull him closer, her breasts pressing hard against his own chest. It took him a second to realize Tamsyn wasn’t wearing a bra. She must have realized he’d lost focus because her voice grew louder,

“One – two – three. One – two – three.”

There was little he could do about the natural consequence growing in his pants. The slightest breeze caused a reaction down there these days and he didn’t stand a chance with a pair of girl’s boobs pressing against his chest.

Tamsyn’s smile grew as she pressed her thigh against Billy’s manhood.

Billy asked, “Uhh … Can we stop?”

“So soon?” Tamsyn grinned, “Things were starting to get fun.”

Billy said, “I … uhhh … I need to use the bathroom. That wine went right through me.”

Tamsyn nodded, “There’s a bathroom attached to my bedroom. I’ll show you if you follow me.”

Billy followed Tamsyn up the stairs, taking each step as slow as possible. Tamsyn’s hand wouldn’t allow him to stop completely, but feeling her flesh touch his own made the pain in his groin grow worse. One step. Two steps. Three steps.

“This place is as big as a church.”

“It used to be a church.”

The info made Billy forget his growing problem for the moment. “Really?”

“This house is over 150 years old. A group of evangelicals thought the top of this hill a perfect spot to build a church, it being closer to god and
all. I think their parishioners found the climb to the top a bit too strenuous to do every Sunday. You should see the view from the top floor. You can see for miles in every direction.”

“I bet.” Billy replied hoping Tamsyn didn’t look down.

Billy entered the bathroom, covering himself as Tamsyn disappeared into her bedroom. The bathroom was more modern than he expected, with a large porcelain tub and a vanity worthy of a woman like Tamsyn. A large frosted window on the north wall would have let in a good amount of light if it weren’t so late.

Billy cracked the window and looked outside, seeing the large forest beyond. His friends should be somewhere out there, telling stories, and bragging about their conquests. He’d noticed the changes in all of them after their visit to Tamsyn. How long had it been since he’d arrived? An hour? Two? The wine had gone right to his brain.

Tamsyn’s voice shouted from the next room. “How’s it going in there?”

Billy pulled down his pants, his boner enjoying its sudden freedom. Maybe it was the wine, or maybe it was the lighting, but the thing looked bigger than normal. He didn’t have to pee, and it didn’t seem like a good idea to jack off considering what was waiting in the next room.

Billy said, “I’m doing OK.”

“Come and join me.”

“I can’t.”

Tamsyn said, “I can help you with your little problem … if you’d like.” Her laugh could be heard through the door’s frame. “Though from what I felt, it’s not so little.”

Billy let his pants and underwear hit the floor. He looked in the mirror to see a picture of opposites. Billy had always been the smallest boy of their group. As a kid he was the one who got picked on the most and had the highest sounding voice. He was the least athletic and rightly got picked last on all the sports teams. He was never much of a fighter. And yet between his legs stood a manliness few could deny. Unfortunately, he was a grow-er not a show-er and comparing engorged penises wasn’t something teenage boys did in their town without a severe beating.

Billy held his pants up to the moonlight to see the large wet spot staining them even worse than he’d imagined. The precum staining his underwear made a bigger mess.

A pink robe hanging off the door knob gave him an idea. He figured Tamsyn wouldn’t mind, hell she might even like it. The silk felt fantastic as his arms slid through the armholes and the material wrapped around his body. A pull of the robe’s belt tied it tight.

A check in the mirror brought back a feeling of longing, the robe extenuating it with a tantalizing memory of Tamsyn’s scent of perfume and cigarettes. Billy slid his hands over the material, enjoying its softness. His hands stopped as they felt the chest, the large cavity a reminder of the massive breasts that normally filled the space. Billy touched the space pretending to feel something growing underneath.

Tamsyn shouted from the next room. “It’s getting lonely in here.”

“I’m coming.” Billy took a deep breath. Why fantasize when the real thing was in the next room?

Tamsyn’s bed filled one side of the room, bigger than a king with dozens of blankets and pillows strewn all over. A canopy connected to posts on all four corners, the lace coverings falling down to form a sort of privacy tent.

Tamsyn said, “I like your outfit.”

Billy said, “I hope you don’t mind.”

“It’s looks good on you.” Tamsyn patted the bed. ”Come sit beside me, Billy.”

Billy pulled at the straps on the robe. “I can’t … sit.”

Tamsyn commanded, “Please sit, Billy.”

Billy wanted to say no, but he found himself helpless to Tamsyn’s charms. When he got close to the bed, she took a hold of each arm and pulled him closer. Billy tried to resist at first, but Tamsyn was stronger than she appeared.

“Impressive.”

“What?”

Tamsyn stared down, and Billy did the same, seeing his penis had snaked its way through the folds of the robe and now poking free in the night air. He tried to cover himself but Tamsyn didn’t let go of his hands.

“That is nothing to be embarrassed about. You’re bigger than most of the boys I've seen. Much bigger than your friends.” Tamsyn asked, “Would you lay down on the bed for me?”

Billy felt a gentle shove, and he fell back, the group of pillows softening his fall.

The bed pulled him inside, and Billy found it hard to move though it could have been the wine. Tamsyn didn’t allow him time to get comfortable, soon her hot breath on his thigh was the first indication of her plans. Billy started to say something as Tamsyn’s lips engulfed him whole.
It took less than ten seconds for the mass of hot seed to shoot out, Tamsyn’s movements ensuring not a single drop hit the covers.

Billy turned away as Tamsyn crept up the covers. “Sorry.”

Tamsyn said, “About what?”

“That’s never happened to me before.”

“This is your first time with a woman, Billy. You don’t have enough experience to know what is normal.”

“I mean … sure.” Billy gave her an embarrassed smile. “I lasted a half-second.”

“You made it closer to ten seconds.” Tamsyn’s voice turned to a high-pitched cackle before she continued, “Do you think your friends did
better? Or any of your classmates? Do you think many virgins control themselves the first time I go down on them?”

Billy shrugged, “I don’t know.”

Tamsyn said, “You boys watch your pornos, and laugh away your insecurities. By the time you see me, you’ve got a lifetime of pent up sexual energy you need to release and I’m glad to take it.”

“Sorry.”

“Don’t apologize Billy.” Tamsyn smiled. “Do you want to see something you can do the old guys in the pornos can’t do?”

Billy shrugged as Tamsyn touched him, blood rushing to the shaft in a sort of half salute.

“It feels weird.”

“That’s because you aren’t ready for another go, but your body is doing its best to fulfill my request. An older man would lay flaccid for at least ten minutes no matter what I did to him.

“That kinda hurt.”

Tamsyn grinned, “It hurt so good you mean.” She crawled to the top the bed. “Come up here and join me. Some say pillow talk is the best part of sex.”

He liked the idea of talking to this woman. She was nicer than he expected. Billy used his elbows to slide up the bed until he found a pillow.

“Pillow talk is the best part of sex? I’ve never heard anyone say that before.”

“That’s because it’s not true.” Tamsyn laughed, “The people who say that are doing it wrong.”

“Oh.”

Billy stared at Tamsyn as she pulled out a silver case, opened it, then put a cigarette into a long thin holder. She gave him a grin as she reached for her ancient looking lighter. After a click on the mechanism she blew out a billowy cloud away from Billy’s face then turned towards him.

Billy asked, “Why do you do this with boys like me?”

Tamsyn smiled. “Do you care?”

“I’m curious. You’re pretty. You could get any guy you wanted. Why do this?”

“It’s difficult to explain. It’s a long story and unfortunately we don’t have time.” She stared at Billy’s crotch which had already grown to mini-chub status. "Suffice it to say, my wealth complicates things. Younger men have simpler demands.”

“Why me? I've heard you've turned many boys away.”

Tamsyn smiled, “Pity?”

“Hey!” Billy shook his head when he realized Tamsyn was teasing him. “Doesn’t it bother you? The talk…”

Tamysn nodded, “I’m quite aware of what most people think, but I have an insatiable desire to bed virgins. Call it a kink. Call it an obsession. I know the women in town would never understand as most of the boys who come to me are dull as rocks. That’s why I take my time with smart, handsome boys like you. You’re a piece of clay I can mold in my hands. I get to train you and maybe even corrupt you a little.”

“Corrupt me?”

She smiled as she pulled the blanket over her head, only reappearing with skirt, bra, and panties in hand. All three garments hit the floor, one after the other.

Billy asked, “Are you naked?”

Tamsyn offered her hand, “Would you like to find out?”

Billy felt himself stir at the invitation, but didn’t dare find out, “Isn’t this wrong?”

Tamsyn said, “I’m sure some see it that way, but I did not force you to enter my house. Even so, I’m sure opinions would be swift if our genders were reversed. Can you imagine the town's response if lines of high school girls visited an older man’s house, who deflowered them into womanhood.”

Billy laughed, “It sounds bad when you put it like that.”

“I am allowed to do this only because you are male. Perhaps it’s not right, but it’s a small town and I’ve heard no complaints. You boys need to learn the ropes somewhere. I didn’t force your visit, and I never see a boy a second time. Boys throughout history have sought out women like me, and society has always turned a blind eye to us. I provide a service. Old Widow McClary, the whore on the hill. That’s me.”

“I’ve never…”

Tamsyn interrupted, “The name doesn’t bother me. They’re only words.”

Billy considered the words. Something seemed off, “You aren’t old.”

“People make assumptions.”

Billy said,“I made assumptions.”

“True.” Tamsyn laughed as flung off her blanket to reveal an amazing set of tits. Billy stared at them as she positioned herself on top as the stirring in Billy's loins grew.

Tamsyn said, “The truth is townsfolk would never know me if I ventured into town. Besides, I’m older than you think. We women use concoctions to hide our age, and my magic is better than most.”

Billy looked into her eyes. They were so blue they didn’t look natural. “Does it matter?”

“I suppose not.” Tamsyn smiled when Billy’s eyes again left hers. “You seem quite fixated on my breasts. You can touch them if you’d like.”

Tamsyn took Billy’s hand and guided it to her breast. The warmth caused instant reaction down below.

Billy answered with a mind full of lust. “I don’t think you’re a whore.”

Tamsyn said, “Thank you, Billy. I doubt many boys who visit would say the same.”

Billy reached out to touch the other breast, Tamsyn closing her eyes as he did. “I thought you said you don’t care what the townsfolk think.”
Tamsyn leaned over and kissing Billy on the cheek. “Not one bit.” She drew closer until their lips almost touched, her smoky breath intoxicating.

“I’m not sure I can do this.”

Tamsyn smiled. “The flesh pressing against my thigh says otherwise.” She reached down and grabbed Billy, her touch causing the whole to grow even larger.

Billy groaned, “Owwww…”

Tamsyn cooed, "You are so innocent. So pure. So easy to command."

A sadness filled Billy as Tamsyn moved her attention to his lips. She kissed him, a soft kiss at first and then more aggressive, causing all disappointment to disappear. Billy began to kiss her faster.

“Slow down Billy. There’s no need to rush. Let the feeling build. Women like it when you take it slow.” Tamysn nibbled at his ear as she spoke, a flitting tongue causing waves of electric shocks through his whole body.

Billy no longer heard Tamsyn’s voice and his eyes fell blind as strong arms wrapped him to Tamsyn's chest, their bodies now a solid mass while a singular thought echoed in his mind to penetrate her over and over.

A voice called through the black. “Don’t respond to the dark impulses.”

Billy felt Tamsyn pulling him close, the pair resorting to a safer course of playful kisses.

“That’s better.”

Billy couldn’t help his body’s gyrations, his penis rubbing against Tamsyn’s slit, the appendage growing larger and larger until he felt it might burst before the pain disappeared as skin slid over skin. Tamsyn rolled on top with a singular thought, putting Billy on his back.

She stood over him as their bodies continued to grind, smiling and teasing, but didn’t make him wait long. With a firm hand, she guided him inside as her smile continued to grow.

Time stopped. The universe made sense. Heaven and hell merged. A clarity unknown to mere mortals coursed through Billy’s mind, and yet he found it impossible to think. He arched his back as Tamyn continued to press him into her, until all eight inches of his manhood were inside.

“AAAIIIIEEEEE!”

This time it was Tamsyn who screamed, at least Billy thought it was Tamsyn. When he opened his eyes he saw her smiling at him. “Do you like that?”

Billy gave a furious nod, his breath not rising above a whisper. Tamsyn raised herself as Billy pleaded without words for her to move faster. Once again she rose and fell but slower each time. Again and again, rise and fall, rise and fall. Their bodies moved in a synchronic dance as winds whipped through the room and candles began to flicker.

Billy could have swore he saw stars rise then fall as darkness engulfed their bodies. Their souls merged then separated, again and again, until nothing remained but a feeling of continuous bliss until an explosion split his atoms into a thousand beams of light.

Tamsyn watched the boy sleep. He’d passed out, and in that way he was no different from the others. She knew better than most how long it took to become a great lover. She learned a lot over the years and now knew how to pull out every scrap of energy from her beaus.
Experience told it wouldn’t take long for the boy to recover. Vitality was one of the advantages of sleeping with young men.

Tamsyn cupped both hands around the lower part of her belly. Billy had been better than most, and the warmth he’d given her now emanated deep inside her womb.

---

---

Chapter 6

September, 1918

‘Dear Tamsyn,

The outside world is more amazing and more terrifying than I ever knew. Everywhere I look there are reminders of how small and insignificant I am compared to the horror all around me, and yet my love of you drives me forward.

Paris is like a dream – it’s even better than the stories, and yet my heart aches for the simple things I had back home. They are feeding us well -- the veterans think that means they’ll be sending us to the front soon. I can tell my men are nervous, but we’re all excited to get into the fight.

We’ve been training for over a year, and the French and English troops need our help. I heard a French general say there’s so many of us Americans, we’ll roll right over the Huns.

Thanks for the picture you sent in your last letter. I carry it in my breast pocket, so you are always close to my heart. Please tell Mom and Dad not to worry about me and that all of you are in my thoughts.

As I am unable to take a photo at present, I’ve included a French poppy which I picked for you, my most special of girls. I have kissed each petal of this flower, and with it comes all my love,

Eddie

PS – If you could, please send a picture like one I drew in our bedroom. My nights are filled with memories of our time together, and seeing an image of your beauty would add steel to my heart.’

Tamsyn reread her letter for the thousandth time then touched the pressed flower to her cheek.

It didn’t take long for the town to resume its normal routine soon after the boys left. An outsider viewing the procession might not know there was a war going on unless they knew where to look. The ribbons and flags lining Main Street seemed a paltry sacrifice when viewing the houses draped in black. None of it seemed real and yet, the weight pressed down on everyone even if few talked about it. Tamsyn’s life went on like a dream living inside a nightmare.

She’d shared a hug with Eddie’s Mom when the train pulled away. Neither said a word - the look they gave one another might have been one of kinship or maybe even a look of pity. Tamsyn didn’t realize it then but being a soldier’s wife and the mother of a son had a lot in common. The real horror was not knowing and each day’s agony drove silent wedges between them.

Jenny said, “I got more invoices.”

Tamsyn shook her head. She’d shown Jenny how to process them a half dozen times but the girl never caught on. “Put them with the others. I’ll mark them for payment, and get the boss to write some checks.”

Jenny Driesen was a clever girl in her own way, but she’d never been known for her brains. The only qualification she brought to this office was her marriage to Adam Driesen, Eddie’s best friend. While Jenny wasn’t qualified, that was true of many people working in the factory. Half of its workforce was now in France, and truth be told, Tamsyn was sure others in the factory questioned her own qualifications for much the same reason.

Jenny asked, “Are you coming to my house tonight?”

Tamsyn sighed, “I can’t. You know Mrs. McClary.”

“But it’s my birthday.” Jenny said, giving her saddest face, “She’ll understand.”

Tamsyn shrugged, “I don’t know. Maybe.”

“It’d be keen if you did.” Jenny smiled. “Ella, Margaret, and Helen would love to see you. Gracie and Cathy might be there too.”

“Great.” Tamsyn smiled, doing her best to sound excited to see the girls who’d made her high school years a living hell.

Tamsyn took the invoices up the stairs to the office that looked over the factory. The sign on the door read, ‘Edward McClary, Sr., President – McClary & Son Fertilizer Company’.

Tamsyn hadn’t known much about Eddie’s dad before they got married. She did know the man was rich and he worked a lot. She also knew he spent most of his off hours focusing on his son. Nothing had changed with Eddie away, and that was especially true of the business work. Every fertilizer business in the country was working double shifts for the war effort.

She called out, “Got some bills for ya, boss.”

A deep voice called back, “I’m in here.”

Tamsyn found Mr. McClary in the conference room attached to his office. She supposed before the war the company had meetings in here but now the table was littered with newspapers and press clippings, and a large map of France covering one side of the table. Lines of string dissected the northern part of the country. On either side of the line he’d placed a series of tiny toy soldiers, with the northern army colored gray, and the southern colored blue. She saw Mr. McClary holding an army soldier with the number 30 on top of his head.

Mr. McClary said, “Put the invoices on my desk. I’ll get to them in the morning.”

“Sure thing, boss.”

Mr. McClary shook his head giving her a look of mock anger, “Tamsyn… How many times do I have to tell you to call me, Dad? You’re part of the family now.”

Tamsyn watched as he set the army figurine back on the map. “You know I can’t do that here, boss. You know what people would say.” She smiled as she stared at her father-in-law. Despite being twice her age, the man looked more than Eddie’s older brother than the richest man in town.

“You’re a stubborn girl, you know.” He gave her a smile reminiscent of Eddie’s and the many lines on his face began to disappear. “You’re as stubborn as my son. I suppose that’s why he fell in love with you.”

Tamsyn felt a queasy rise in her stomach. She watched as Mr. McClary’s eyes drifted towards the map. He’d placed the figurine representing the 30th Infantry Division near a small town in Northwestern France. “Bellicourt? Is that where Eddie is right now?”

Mr. McClary frowned, “Have I ever told you, you’re too smart for your own good?”

“Yes, sir.” Tamsyn said, posing as if a soldier standing at attention, “Many times, boss.”

Mr. McClary shook his head. “It’s late. You should get out of here. Someone told me it’s Jenny’s birthday today, and a bunch of your high school friends are planning a celebration. You should go have fun.”

“Did Jenny tell you it’s her birthday?”

Mr. McClary nodded, “That girl never stops talking.”

Tamsyn said, “You should spend a day in the office with her.”

“No, thanks.” Mr. McClary said, his eyes returning their focus to the map. “Now run along. I have work I need to finish.”

“Yes, boss.”

The streets were dark as Tamsyn hurried up the path towards Eddie’s parents’ house. Even after a year, it didn’t seem like home.

A woman’s voice called as soon as she entered. “I see the family whore is home.”

The alcohol smelled thick on Mrs. McClary’s breath as Tamsyn entered the kitchen. The woman’s face looked demonic as she spoke. “Where have you been? I bet you’ve been screwing lazy draft dodgers while my brave boy is fighting for his country in France.”

Tamsyn gave momentary thought to explain, but she knew nothing could calm Mrs. McClary in this state. Even Mr. McClary had trouble controlling his wife when her drinking got this bad.

Tamsyn ran up the stairs and into her room, turning the key in the lock after closing the door. Her room had become both a sanctuary and a jail. Anger boiled from her every pore, and sweat soaked her skin as she tore at her clothing.

The pieces of material came off one at a time until Tamsyn stood in the middle of the room wearing nothing but a pair of bloomers. A look in the mirror showed long lines of skin without an ounce of fat. Two large breasts hung low on her chest, driven down by gravitational necessity.

Tamsyn turned to the side to get a better look. Eddie never admitted it, but over the years she figured out why he’d been drawn to her. Boys never paid her any mind before that summer. She remembered her chest being sore for the better part of a year but gave it little thought.

Nothing happened for a long time then – wham – almost overnight, she found she had two massive weights hanging down from her chest. It was silly to complain. Without them, only god knew where she’d be.

A pad of paper lay on the nearby desk. The desk chair felt cold as she sat. Tamsyn began to write:

Dearest Eddie,

The whole gang got together today for Jenny’s birthday, minus you boys of course. It’s the first time I’ve seen Ella, Margaret, Helen, Gracie and Cathy at the same time since they had their babies. We met at Jenny’s parent’s house, and I think her Dad must have saved rations for a month. We had quite a feast.

Everyone is doing good. Margaret wouldn’t stop talking about John, Jr. Cathy ate enough food for two people. Skinny little Ella is now as big as a house. All the babies are healthy. I promised them all, I’d visit soon.

Your Mom is doing well. She prays for your safe return every day. So do I.

Your Dad is amazing. I’ve learned so much from him in the past year. He’s been a dynamo and everyone respects him. He sleeps in his office most days and though he’s too proud to admit it, I know he’s doing it for you.

Keep your head down and come home safe. I’m keeping the bed warm for you.

Your special girl,
Tamsyn

P.S. - I’ve enclosed the photo you requested. I hope you like it. Keep it safe.

When the boys first left for the war, the girls exchanged embarrassed looks the first time they gathered. Everything happened so fast – one day they were in high school – two weeks later they’d become war brides.

It was Jenny who broke the ice. “I hope the boys don’t get leave from training any time soon. My vagina needs time to recover. I swear it's gonna be sore for a year.”

The others girls looked at one another in mock horror but no one dared to respond until Ella began to giggle. Soon the whole group howled with laughter.

Cathy said, “I can’t believe you said that, Jenny.”

“Doesn’t mean it isn’t true.” Helen said, rubbing at her crotch.

Jenny’s admission loosened the cork holding back all the girl’s tongues. The older girls warned them it would hurt for a while. These women were right, of course, but no one told them how good it would feel. Over the next few months Tamsyn endured story after story about the joys of sex until their one by one, the pregnancies started to show. After that, stories of growing bellies and increased appetites became the main topic of discussion. Tonight’s discussion compared notes about the best way to take care of a baby.

Tamsyn was glad when the group’s talks turned to babies instead of sex. Her first attempt at intercourse turned into a disaster. They’d both done their best, but the experience ended with her husband sprinting limp-dicked for the bathroom. Tamsyn spent most of the next three hours crying, fearing she’d done something wrong.

Neither of them spoke after he emerged. It was better to pretend nothing had happened. Every morning at breakfast the newlyweds split into groups according to gender. The boy’s discussions grew more raucous every day. The girls grew more embarrassed with every shouted story.

She and Eddie didn’t try again, as their activities alternating between Eddie’s obsession with Tamsyn’s breasts and him working on pencil drawn sketches as Tamsyn lay nude on the bed. They both agreed her best pose was one where she was leaning forward over the edge of the bed with her long hair disheveled and her bosoms hanging down.

Tamsyn risked a question on their final day together, asking Eddie’s purpose as he continued to sketch.

“I need to remember every inch of your body while I’m away” was the response.

Tamsyn compared the sketch Eddie had drawn with the photo she held in her hand.

It wasn’t the first photo she’d taken. Every girl who could afford the cost sent photos to their husbands. Each picture drew requests for another. The last one Tamsyn sent showed a her wearing a modern looking dress with a low neck-line, no corset, and a split skirt. Mrs. McClary called her a whore when she saw it.

She could only imagine what the woman would say if she saw her latest creation.

Tamsyn didn’t dare go to a photographer in town. Instead, she found a guy in Nashville who specialized in such things. The picture cost a month’s pay, but seeing the similarities between this picture and Eddie’s sketch made it worth every cent. She paid cash, and after she got the print, she destroyed the plate herself.

She’d planned to drop the picture in the mail at the Nashville post office the same day but chickened out at the last moment. The picture had lain under the bed with the rest of Eddie’s sketches for the past two weeks, waiting for her next visit to the big city. She didn’t dare drop it off with the local postmaster. The last thing she needed was for one of the creeps at the local post office to open her letter and find the photo.

The woman in the image looked nothing like the girl who showed up to McClary Fertilizer wearing a Victorian style dress each morning. Tamsyn doubted anyone would link her to the photo even if they saw it. She barely recognized herself in the image. The moll in the picture looked like an overdone floozy from a picture show only without any clothing from the waist up. The fact the photographer offered to return his fee and double it if he could keep the plates told Tamsyn everything she needed to know.

She needed to be careful. It didn’t take much for a girl to lose her reputation these days with all the boys overseas. Town gossips loved telling tales of wives taking advantage of their husband’s absence. Tamsyn knew for a fact many of these tales were true.

When Eddie left, she decided she had to play her own part in the war effort, hoping her early nights and style of dress might hold back any speculation. Her actions had convinced her friends if you believed their taunts. To them, she was Mrs. Edward McClary, Jr., childless spinster.

Of course none of this stopped the guys at work from trying to take advantage. The factory was full of men deemed necessary for the war effort and most had decided to take full advantage of being safe at home while the town’s boys were ‘over there’. As Eddie’s wife, she made it clear to all it was best not to risk Mr. McClary Sr.’s wrath. Instead, she watched as Jenny took a side job under the stairs. A half-day’s wage for ten-minutes with her lips.

Tamsyn tried not to judge. The last thing she wanted was to let the war turn her into a judgemental old hag like Mrs. McClary, Sr. Times were tough and not everyone had the advantage of money.

Even if money were no issue, Tamsyn knew she’d have difficulty condemning her best friend.

The elders said girls weren’t supposed to think about sex but the discussions with her ‘high school friends’ told her nothing could be further from the truth. To them, it was cruel to have something so wonderful given to them for two weeks and then have it torn away. She'd heard rumors more than a couple had strayed.

For her part, Tamsyn didn’t dare tell a soul she and Eddie hadn’t consummated their marriage. At night, she replayed the events of their two weeks as husband and wife, each memory dominating her dreams. With her husband over four thousand miles away, she’d tried several methods of self pleasure, but nothing hit the spot.

As Jenny said to the group a few hours earlier – “She needed a stiff dick.”

Each morning Tamsyn watched as the boys glared as she entered the factory. Some of them were quite cute and the looks caused her to go weak in the knees. While she did best to ignore it, she found if she stared too long, her innards began to quiver. Perhaps Mrs. McClary was right - maybe deep down she was a whore.

** Knock … knock … knock **

A familiar voice called through the thick wooden door. “Tamsyn?”

“Coming.”

Tamsyn pulled on a heavy cloak to cover her nakedness before rushing to the door and turning the key. “Did you need something … boss?”

Mr. McClary shook his head. “Hazel told me she heard yelling after you got home. I wanted to check on you to make sure you’re OK.”

“I’m fine.”

Mr. McClary pulled a handkerchief from his pocket, “The tears staining your face say otherwise,” he said, dabbing them dry.

Tamsyn closed her eyes, basking in the scent of her father-in-law’s cigar. “I’m writing a letter to Eddie. I try not to be sad but …”

“Oh. I’m so sorry.” Mr. McClary withdrew his hand as fast as he’d offered it, seeming as discomforted as Tamsyn had ever seen him. “I’ll leave you to your writings.”

“Thanks for checking in on me … Dad.” Tamsyn forced the final word from her lips, happy to see it drew a smile from the older man’s lips.

“Any time.” Mr. McClary blushed.

Once the door closed, Tamsyn realized she’d left her bawdy picture sitting on the dressing table. It was unlikely Mr. McClary saw it due to the distance but she couldn’t be sure. She could only imagine what the man might think if he’d seen it up close. Tamsyn redoubled the lock.

“Love, honor, cherish, and obey.” She dropped the picture into a thick mailing envelope used for express mail to the soldiers overseas reminding herself she was good girl.

‘Thoughts are not deeds.’

Tamsyn knew she shouldn’t feel guilty. After all, Eddie was the one who’d requested she take the nudey picture. When she started to put her handwritten letter inside the envelope, she noticed a few tears had stained some of the words. Tamsyn pulled out a fresh sheet of paper and began to write again.

Chapter 7

“Are you awake?”

Billy could see Tamsyn clinging tight to his chest. “Did I pass out?”

Tamsyn smiled. “It’s natural for men to feel sleepy after they finish.”

“Did I do okay?”

“You did great Billy. One of the best I’ve ever had.” Tamsyn gave him a great big smile.

Billy knew she was being nice, but the lie made him feel better, and the passion she evoked from his loins made the lie seem plausible. A part of him hoped she'd never let go.

“Do you feel different, Billy? You’re not a virgin anymore, you know.”

Billy shrugged, "A little. Maybe. Is this what love feels like?" The words popped out of his mouth before he could call them back.

Tamsyn laughed, “Don’t be silly.”

Billy considered the words for a moment, then said, “I’ve never felt like this for anyone.” That wasn't exactly true but close enough.

Tamsyn said, “You’re experiencing a post-coital chemical reaction. Nature put these chemicals inside us so men and women would form bonds. It’s unfortunate the feeling doesn’t last forever.”

Billy said, “My stomach is churning something awful.”

Tamsyn asked, “Are you hungry?”

“No… I don’t know. It feels like someone scooped me out from the inside.”

Tamsyn laughed, “You’re a growing boy. Boys are all the same. They need three things – food, sex, and alcohol. In my experience, they can rarely get enough of all three, but the best course in all things is moderation. Would you like some tea, instead?”

Billy said, “I don’t like tea.”

“You said you didn’t like wine, and yet you polished off the better part of a bottle.”

“True.” Billy rubbed his temples, “My head hurts. What time is it?”

“A little after 9:00PM.”

“Oh.” Billy pulled himself up in the bed. “I guess I’m supposed to go now."

“Ha!” Tamsyn laughed, “A minute ago you claimed to love me, and now you’re trying to leave."

Billy sat up to watch Tamsyn get out of the bed with not a stitch of clothing on her body. She pointed through the window into the woods, “Your friends are still waiting. They seem to be having a grand time. I see one of them brought binoculars.”

Billy pulled the covers tight. “I’ll take your word for it.”

"Would you like to do it again?”

“Again?” Billy felt his excitement build. “I thought you had a rule - only once per customer.”

Tamsyn said, “My rule is one visit per customer and it is my choice when the visit ends. I find you a very special boy, Billy.”

“I am?”

Tamsyn leaned towards him, brushing her hand across his cheek. The touch caused an immediate reaction down below.

“Now?”

Tamsyn shook her head, “Of course not now. You need a lesson in patience.”

“Oh.”

Tamsyn smiled, “I hope you don’t mind if I leave you alone for a few minutes. I need some time to clean up, if you know what I mean.” She gave a shy smile causing Billy to blush.

Billy didn’t say a word as he watched Tamsyn disappear into the dressing room. The longer he sat, the louder his inner voice shouted.

‘I had sex!’
‘I had SEX!’
‘I HAD SEX!’

The guys were right. Something had changed inside him. He never remembered feeling this good. He’d heard sex was great and he never doubted the claims but the real thing exceeded his wildest dreams. The only thing that could have made the experience better is if he’d done it with someone other than the town’s whore.

‘Dammit.’ Billy regretted the thought as soon as it popped into his head. Tamsyn had been exceedingly nice.

Before coming here, he’d researched her and this house but hadn’t found much. The stories said the widow had performed this service for as long as anyone could remember. Somewhere in the dark recesses of Billy's mind rose a question – Why did she look so young? The thought caused him to jump out of bed and into the cold bedroom air.

“Brrrr….” Billy realized in a flash he wasn’t wearing a stitch of clothing and his gaze turned to look out the bedroom window. Thoughts of his friend’s binoculars caused him to grab the closest garments in a panic, sliding both on easily, as they were made of silk. Looking down and seeing he now wore a chemise and a pair of bloomers, Billy covered both items with the pink nightgown he’d found in the bathroom.

A quick look showed the cold air had done a number on his manhood. If size were any indicator, it would be an hour before he’d be in shape for another go. And he wanted another go.

“La … la la … la … la .. la la la … la”

Tamsyn’s voice sung in the next room, accompanied by the echo of water entering a bathtub. The sound called to him, and he fought the urge to join her as Billy sniffed at his new outfit. Neither article of silk was especially flattering, more suited to something his grandmother might wear instead of a beautiful woman like Tamsyn.

"Ahhh..." Seeing himself in Tamsyn's clothes made Billy harden and his words came out as a loud moan forcing him to clapped both hands over his mouth in hopes Tamsyn didn't hear.

When he heard Tamsyn continuing to sing, Billy breathed a sigh of relief and began to laugh, 'I guess everyone is right. I am weird. And a pervert too.'

Another look in the mirror showed his ridiculousness. The undergarments hung off his body like two potato sacks. Billy pressed on the warm pleats where Tamsyn's breasts had been earlier, rubbing the area again and again until it started hurt. Residual wetness pressed cold against his cock. Billy pulled the bloomers up, allowing his juices to mix with Tamsyn's.

"Billy?" Tamsyn’s voice sounded far away as he dove under the covers.

"Yes?"

Tamsyn asked, "Could you find me a spare robe? You’re using the one I kept in here."

"Uhhh…" Billy waited a few seconds hoping to retain more of the bed’s warmth. "Where is it?"

Tamsyn said, "I have several in the closet. Bring me the red one and a matching pair of house slippers."

"Ok." Billy said, seeing his member now standing at half staff. "Be there in a second."

His friends weren't lying about the size of this woman's closet. A thousand dresses would be an understatement. Items were grouped by type, fashion, and color and organized enough so it didn’t take long to find the cloaks.

The house slippers took a bit longer, but only because Tamsyn had so many pairs of shoes. Heels, pumps, sneakers, flats, boots, and countless others sat among the hundreds of pairs of footwear. Near the end sat a row of slippers. He chose a pair of red ones for Tamsyn. remembering the cold of the floor, he picked a matching pair of pink for himself.

Billy closed his eyes as he entered the bathroom. “Are you decent?”

“Hardly.” Tamsyn chuckled.

Billy looked at his feet. “I hope you don’t mind, I borrowed some slippers.”

“They look good on you.” Tamsyn smiled as she got out of the tub and dried her naked body, not bothered in the slightest by his presence.

She pointed to his underwear and pants laying on the counter, pre-cum stains marring both. “Gunther can hand-wash these in a flash. He’s a magician with cum stains. You’re not the first visitor who has had that problem.”

“Uhhh…”

Tamsyn didn’t say a word as she finished drying off and put on her clothing, the smile on her face the only indication she had noticed Billy’s stare. Looking in the mirror, she stated, "We look like twins."

Billy stared into the mirror, looking at Tamsyn and back to himself. “I don’t think that is true.”

“You look better than most of the boys who decide to try on my clothes.” Tamsyn gave him a wicked smile, “Would you like a tour of the place?”

"A tour?" Billy said through chattering teeth. “Can’t we go back to bed? It’s a bit cold.”

Tamsyn smiled. “Follow me.” Billy followed her into the hallway where it was even colder, then stopped at a hall closet, as she pulled out two cloaks, a red one and a pink one.

“We’ll really be twins now.”

Billy didn’t argue, as he pull the cloak over his head.

“It’s still cold.”

Tamsyn said, “You’ll warm up as we walk around." She pointed, "You’ve seen the entry stairs. One side leads to Gunther’s room and rooms I use for storage. The other wraps around and comes out over here by my bedroom.”

Billy wrapped his arms around himself, doing what he could to stop shivering.

Tamsyn didn’t seem to notice.

“This house has gone through several incarnations over the years. I already told you the first owner designed it with the idea of it being a church.” Tamsyn pointed down the middle of the entry hall. “You can almost see the pews if you squint.”

Billy nodded. He could almost see it. The central area was massive, now designed in the style of a fancy ballroom.

“When the church failed, an investor bought it with the idea of turning it into a hotel and when that failed, my husband and I spent a small fortune to modify it for our purposes.

Tamsyn pointed from one end of the room to the other, “If you draw a line from the foyer to the dining room, you’ll see where the altar used to sit.”

Billy noticed a raised area they’d re-purposed into a wet bar. “This place was a church?”

“Honest to god.” Tamsyn said, raising her hand high in the air as a goofy grin appeared on her face.

“My husband re-purposed the side rooms, copying the style you used to see in the great mansions of England.” Tamsyn pointed, “You’ve already seen the dining hall. Over there is the game room, billiards, and card tables. Upstairs is a half dozen rooms meant for guests or for entertaining. We mainly used the main hall for dancing when opportunities arose. The grand piano is over there, but I never had the patience to learn how to play.”

“This place is a mansion.”

“Yes it is.”

Billy asked, “Why did you stop having parties?”

Tamsyn's face turned dark, “My husband died."

“Oh … shit … sorry.” Billy wished he could pull back his words.

Tamsyn’s face had lost some of its sheen. "My reputation was in tatters when he died. Few of the old gang would visit by the time it happened.”

Billy shook his head, “I’m sorry. I shouldn't have brought it up. I think I enjoy putting my foot in my mouth.”

Tamsyn's face brightened, "No, you're fine. It does no good to shy away from the topic of death. My mother died during the pandemic. My husband died a few months after my twenty-second birthday. This place died with him.”

Tamsyn’s face looked ashen. Billy asked, “Can we talk about something else?”

Tamsyn nodded. “Of course."

Chapter 8

June, 1919

The Raceabout slowed as the train station came into sight. Tamsyn found a parking spot near the front and waited until she saw steam in the distance. Dozens of travelers rushed off the train. The soldiers got off last. The final person off the train caused her to run.

“Eddie!” Tamsyn stopped short when she saw Eddie’s face. A half spent cigarette dangled from his lips. “You smoke now?”

“They gave ‘em to us for free. They helped to take my mind off … everything.”

Tamsyn stared at Eddie. It was like seeing a ghost. “I missed you so much. She wrapped her arms around her husband, finding a skeletal frame.

Eddie asked, “Did Mom and Dad come?”

“They’re waiting back home with Jenny.”

“Jenny still talks to you?”

“Of course.” Tamsyn said, “She works at the factory, same as always. I haven’t spoken to anyone else from school in a while.” She hoped Eddie didn’t press the subject.

He seemed to understand, “I was sorry to hear about your Mom.”

Tamsyn had done her best not to think about it. “Half the town got sick all at once. Old Doc Peters was the first to go. Gracie died too. Thank god, most didn’t suffer long.”

Eddie nodded, “Half of my platoon got the Spanish Flu, but only two died.” His eyes took on a faraway look. “I wish more had gone that way. It might have been kinder.”

Tamsyn wanted to ask more, but the doctor warned her to stay away from the topic. “You look good.”

Eddie tried to smile. “Liar.”

“I’m not lying.” Tamsyn said through gritted teeth. Eddie looked nothing like the man she remembered. He lit another cigarette with the one in his mouth then stared at Tamsyn with the hollowed-out eyes of someone who hadn’t gotten a lot of sleep.

Eddie attempted another smile, “You do look amazing, Tamysn. Better than black and white.” He patted his left breast. Eddie put his hand inside his jacket, opening the brass container, and showing the photos inside.

Tamsyn blushed. “I can’t believe I took those.” She stared at Eddie, not sure how to respond. “You didn’t show them to anyone, did you?”

“Of course not. These were only for me.”

Tamsyn looked at the pictures. The top one showed her seated on a chair in the photographer’s office, with a blouse pulled tight against her chest. She removed the photos from the metal container one by one, but didn’t see the object of her search. “Where’s the other picture?”

Eddie said, “That’s all of them. I looked at them every day. Some days they were the only thing that kept me sane.”

Panic gripped Tamsyn, and she found it hard to swallow. “What about the last picture you requested? I sent it as soon as I was able.”

Eddie shook his head, “I never got it. Mail got hectic in the last months of the war.”

“Oh.” Tamsyn tried to smile, but found it wouldn’t form., “Did you get my letters? I wrote you every day. Twice a day after Bellicourt.”

Eddie fell slack upon hearing the town’s name. “I haven’t gotten anything in a while …” His voice trailed off. He stared at Tamsyn as if she were a thousand miles away.

‘Dammit.’ Tamsyn cursed under her breath at her stupidity. They’d told her to avoid the subject of the battle, but the word just popped out. The tragedy at Bellicourt was all anyone spoke about for months. Even now most wouldn’t let it go and it was hard to blame them. Tamysn pasted a smile on her face and slipped her arm around her husband’s thin waist. “Do you see what I brought?”

Eddie looked in the direction Tamysn pointed, but didn’t react. “Oh. The car.”

Tamsyn helped Eddie walk to the parking lot, each movement threatening to cause a fall. “I brought a picnic lunch. I figured you must be starving. We could go to the lakehouse if you want.”

Eddie shook his head. “They … uhhh … fed us … on the train. It was a long ride.”

“Ok.”

Eddie stared at the car with unseeing eyes. Without a word, he stepped around the bumper and got into the passenger seat.

Tamsyn asked, “Don’t you want to drive?”

Eddie didn’t respond.

Tamsyn nodded and jumped in the driver’s seat, then closed her eyes. Eddie’s father had offered to pick up his son, but she insisted she should be the one to greet him. “Are you ready to go?”

Eddie didn’t answer.

Tamsyn shifted the car into gear, and with practiced precision, accelerated the car down the road. She hoped the goggles would hide her tears.

*****

“AIIIEEEEAAA!”

Tamsyn bolted out of bed when the cry shouted in the night.

“AIIIIEEEEAAA!”

She ran to her husband’s bed.

“Eddie?”

It took time for him to recognize her. Eddie asked, “Did I wake you, again?”

Tamsyn lied, “I was up.”

Eddie bowed his head, tears welling in his eyes. "Sorry."

Tamsyn sat down on the bed, taking Eddie by the hand. "You're home, Eddie. You're safe." The doctors said it would take time, but it'd been over a month with no signs of improvement.

Eddie said, "You need to be careful. I'm afraid I might hurt you."

Tamsyn said, "You could never hurt me Eddie."

Eddie closed his eyes, "I wish that were true." He leaned his head forward, pressing against Tamysn's hand. "I'm so tired."

“I know.”

Tamsyn looked across the room to the decanter of ether the doctor had given them. Eddie had received a full dose before going to bed. She dared not give him more. The room grew quiet so Tamsyn began singing a lullaby she'd learned as a child. She watched Eddie's eyelids grow heavy until he again found sleep.

She stayed there for a few minutes before getting up, grabbing an item from Eddie's nightstand before leaving the room. Her footsteps echoed down the hallway as she made her way to the kitchen.

A voice called from the table, "Couldn't sleep?"

The sound of Mr. McClary’s voice took Tamsyn by surprise. She shoved the object in her hand into her pocket.

"No."

Mr. McClary said, "I heard the screaming. I thought you might want company."

Tamsyn nodded, "Thanks, Dad."

Mr. McClary smiled. He used his cigar to point at a ceramic pot on the counter. "I made some tea."

Tamsyn grinned, "You made it?"

He smiled. "I asked Hazel to make it. I figured tonight might be a late one."

Tamsyn nodded. They were visiting the doctor tomorrow but Eddie's first electroshock treatment hadn't gone so well. She doubted the second
would lead to better results. Tamsyn poured herself a cup of tea, adding two lumps of sugar and some milk.

She asked, "Need a refill?"

"I'm good." Mr. McClary smiled. "Do you think it’s time to fess up?”

“About what?”

Mr. McClary again used his cigar to point, this time at Tamsyn. “The thing you are hiding in your pocket."

Tamsyn shook her head. "It's nothing."

Mr. McClary said, "Out with it, Tamsyn. I’m not stupid and we’re both adults here. You can do what you wish."

“I can?”

“Of course.” Tamsyn saw him staring at her. His eyes were focused on her pocket.

Tamsyn reached inside, and placed Eddie's cigarettes on the table. She gave a nervous laugh. "How’d you find out?"

Mr. McClary didn't say a word, instead giving her an enigmatic smile he normally saved for negotiations.

She said, "Someone saw Jenny and me at work and told you, didn't they?"

“Some people call women’s rights progress. I call it anarchy.” Mr. McClary smiled. "First, we allow women to vote, and now they're smoking too? What's next?"

Tamsyn smiled back. She enjoyed working for Eddie's Dad. She hoped she hadn’t disappointed him. "I don't know. Maybe a woman president?"

Mr. McClary's face turned red as a series of guffaws exploded from his lips. "HA HAH HA ha aha ha ha ha... A woman president? Never in a
hundred years."

"Hey!" Tamsyn said, "It's not that funny."

Mr. McClary smiled, "You’ve done a fine job keeping my office in order, Tamsyn, but that doesn’t mean a woman can run the country.” Mr. McClary laughed again. “A woman president? Har Har! I've heard it all."

Tamsyn tried to change the subject, "I’ve only smoked a couple of times. It helps with Eddie."

Mr. McClary said, "I thought we were being honest here. Did you think I wouldn’t notice you sneaking outside at all hours? It seems the cravings have hooked you good."

Tamsyn stared at the pack until she couldn't stand it any longer. She grabbed at the pack, pulling out a cigarette, and leaned forward to the candle Mr. McClary had put there for a purpose. She'd clearly walked into her father-in-law’s finely laid trap.

"I'll quit soon." She said, taking a long drag from her cigarette, and exhaled slowly, her hunger for nicotine sated for a moment.

"Really?"

Tamsyn rolled her eyes. "Okay, maybe not soon but eventually."

Mr. McClary drew on his cigar, "Eddie's been smoking a lot."

Tamsyn nodded. "I know." The cigarette tasted like her husband’s kisses.

Mr. McClary said, "The doctor says soldiers who've gone through trauma tend to obsess on things to take their mind off the pain."

"I know." She'd been to the same lectures.

Mr. McClary took a deep breath. "I have an idea to help Eddie, but I'm going to need your help to pull it off."

Tamsyn said, "I'll do anything."

Mr. McClary said, "You're not going to like it."

Tamsyn said, "What does that mean?"

Mr. McClary said, "I have to relieve you of your current duties at work."

“Huh?” Tamsyn went from happy to sad in a matter of moments. “You're firing me?” She felt the tears form in her eyes and tried to shake them off, “Is it because I'm a woman? I know there's a lot of guys looking for work, but I think I've proven..."

Mr. McClary sighed. "You're a good worker, Tamsyn ... maybe the best office manager I've ever had, but there's a hundred men in this city who can help me run my office. There’s only one person who can help my son. Eddie needs 100% of your attention, Tamsyn."

Tamsyn wanted to complain. She was good at her job and learning more every day. It wasn't fair, but she'd made a vow. She repeated the words to herself many times over the last few years.

‘For better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and health, until death do us part.’

"I know he needs me." Tamsyn crossed her arms and did her best to stem the tears now falling down her face.

"Don't be like that, Tamsyn. You know I’m fair in my business dealings. You are giving me something. I will give you something in return." Mr. McClary sat back in his chair and pulled a piece of paper from his pocket. "You kids deserve some privacy. You deserve to live in your own place, so I bought a property and I think it’s perfect. It’s up on the hill on the south side of town, so you’ll have privacy. It has lots of trees and plenty of space. I'll even pay for a small staff."

Tamsyn said, "The hotel?"

Mr. McClary tossed the piece of paper on the table. "I got a good deal, but the place needs a lot of work. I thought focusing on fixing it up might be a good distraction for Eddie. Once he’s better, we’ll bring him into the office, and you can help him learn the business."

Tamsyn said, “Eddie and I had our honeymoon there.”

“I know.” Mr. McClary said raising his cup of tea, “I thought it might do him good to remember happier times.”

Tamsyn looked down the hallway where Mrs. McClary was sleeping off another night's bender. The woman was a mean drunk. She was even meaner the morning after when nursing a hangover. It would be good to get away. "Yeah. That might be good."

Mr. McClary smiled a knowing smile. "I thought you might see it my way."

Tamsyn said, "When do we move?"

Mr. McClary reached in his pocket and pulled out a set of keys. “As soon as you want.”

Chapter 9

Tamysn said, “Eddie’s dad paid for this place. The man started from nothing, becoming rich enough to buy half the town when the economy tanked.”

“He sounds like an amazing guy.”

“He was. He could have retired early but continued to work until the day he died. I figure he did it to get away from Mrs. McClary.”

Billy gave a dutiful laugh. “It sounds like your relationship with your mother-in-law wasn’t so amazing.”

“It was not. Right after we got married, she offered me a small fortune to disappear so she could have the marriage annulled. Sometimes I wish I’d taken it.”

Billy looked around the room and saw dust piled in every corner. “Wasn’t your marriage happy?”

“It was happy enough.” Tamsyn shook her head. “But our classmates cranked out one baby after another and Eddie and I weren’t so blessed. Eddie was an only child so you’d think our issues having children would bring me and Mrs. McClary closer.”

“Did it?”

Tamsyn sighed. “No. She said I betrayed a trust when I didn’t give her grandchildren.. I suppose she was right in the end.”

Billy turned to Tamsyn, “How so?”

“It’s not important.” Billy watched as Tamsyn's face clouded over, “You didn’t come here to listen to stories of family drama.”

Billy said, “I’m interested.” He was willing to listen to anything to stop Tamsyn from rechecking his genitalia which remained half its normal size.

Tamsyn pointed towards the ballroom, “We had so many parties in this place. It drove Mrs. McClary crazy. She called me all sorts of names. Her favorites were whore, tramp, and golddigger but she expanded her vocabulary of insults over time.”

“That’s terrible.”

“One thing I’ve learned over the years is how easy it can be to mold your identity to the wishes of another.” Tamsyn lit another cigarette. “If someone tells you something enough times, eventually you’ll start to believe it. Once you start to believe it, in time you will become it.”

“Like wearing a crazy flapper costume?”

Tamsyn stopped to give Billy a pose then did a little dance right out of the 1920s. “Did you like my outfit?”

“I liked it. I liked it a lot.”

Tamsyn said, “I love to dance but Eddie didn’t like going out in public. I begged him to join me at the clubs but he refused. For some couples it might have driven a wedge in their relationship but we found a middle ground. We had our parties here.”

“This place is big enough.”

“Eddie and I got married too young. We didn’t know each other when we tied the knot. Neither of us knew the things we wanted out of life.” Tamsyn placed her hand on top of Billy’s. He felt himself grow then shrivel up almost as fast. “Speaking of things we want.” Tamsyn smiled.

Billy looked down. “I'm not ready. It’s really cold.”

“There’s no need to apologize,” Tamsyn grinned as she sat on the couch, “Would you like some coffee while we wait?”

“Do you have any soft drinks?”

“Sorry, I don’t serve fizzy drinks unless you’d like sparkling water.” Tamsyn’s face brightened. “Or maybe champagne? Losing your virginity is a cause for celebration.”

Billy said, “Champagne?”

Tamsyn clapped her hands and Gunther appeared. “Two glasses of champagne please.”

“I don't know ... alcohol isn't good for ... you know...” He looked at his crotch.

Tamsyn laughed. “Hahahaha … you men worry too much about such things. My husband struggled with impotence for years. We spent our marriage in separate beds, but we figured things out eventually.”

“You slept in separate beds?” Billy gave Tamsyn a look..

“Stop. It’s not weird. It worked for us.” Tamsyn kissed Billy on the cheek. “It took me a while but I found the secret to a healthy relationship is finding out the truths about your partner, the ones they don’t want to divulge. It took me a while to figure out my husband’s peccadilloes as every man has different needs, even you Billy. Did you like the outfit I chose for you?”

“It was nice.”

Tamsyn said, “What about this outfit?” She removed her robe to reveal two massive breasts then wiggled her shoulders, causing them to bounce up and down.

Billy stared at the hypnotic movements. “I like them too.”

Tamsyn smiled. “I thought you might.”

Billy continued to stare until the bouncing fell still.

“You can touch them if you want. I don’t mind.”

Billy reached out, his shyness gone. Tamsyn’s skin felt so soft, so smooth. He brushed his hands across her nipple, feeling an unexpected hardness.

Tamsyn smiled, “You’re right … it is cold tonight. Would you like to warm them?"

Billy leaned forward, and began to suckle at Tamsyn’s breast.

Thoughts abounded as his skin touched hers. Tamsyn promised answers but he had questions. The old house. This beautiful woman. None of it made sense. And then there was the time. He’d entered the house before 8PM. It had to be getting close to 10PM and none of his friends had spent more than an hour in this woman’s company. His questions ended when he felt Tamsyn's hand reach inside his silk bloomers.

“That’s unexpected.”

“I can explain.” Billy said, his face reddening.

“There’s no need.”

Billy pulled away, trying to closing his robe. “I told you. It’s cold.”

“I’ll warm it up if you’d like.” Tamsyn said, lowering herself to get a better look at his dick.

Billy looked down. His member felt like it was at full mast but only four inches appeared. Tamsyn didn't appear to mind as her lips parted and her head bobbed.

Billy wanted to say something, but found speech impossible. Instead, he stared at the ceiling as Tamsyn’s head continued to bob up and down and warmth covered him from head to toe.

Chapter 10

March, 1920

Lines of scaffolding reached to the ceiling. A thick layer of dust coated every surface.

The foreman said, “The foyer is ready for your inspection whenever you’ve got time, Mrs. McClary.”

It took Tamsyn a second to look up from the plans. Even after three years, hearing that name sounded strange as she associated it with her mother-in-law.

At the beginning of this project she insisted everyone address her as ‘Tamsyn’ but as Mr. McClary, Sr. predicted, this type of familiarity allowed the men to assume they could take advantage of her kindness. It didn’t take long for her to change the practice.

“I’ll be there in a moment.” Tamsyn studied the plans. Dozens of workers and thousands of dollars had changed the hotel into something that was almost unrecognizable.

A tall swarthy man stood nearby with a look of impatience on his face, “Yes, Gunther?”

“Miss Jenny is on the front porch. Should I tell her to come back later?”

Tamsyn stood, “No. I could use the break.”

Gunther asked, “Shall I bring you ladies some lemonade?”

Tamsyn nodded, “That would be lovely.”

Jenny was still trying to catch her breath when Tamsyn went outside. “Did you walk all the way up here?”

Jenny said, “You know I don’t have a car.”

Tamsyn smiled. “I would have sent someone to pick you up. You should have called.”

Jenny answered, “I didn’t want to be a bother.”

Tamsyn shook her head. “How’s work?”

Jenny laughed, “You know … it’s always the same old chickenshit at the fertilizer plant.”

“Ha. Ha.” Tamsyn gave her best friend an expected laugh. “You better not let the boss hear you using that kind of language.”

It had taken Tamsyn some time to get used to the double standard at work. The men at the factory could cuss like sailors and dress like bums as long as they worked hard. Meanwhile, the women had to wear dresses and behave as if they lived in a convent.

Jenny said, “Boss said your husband might be coming to work soon.”

Tamsyn looked towards the top floor of their house. “I doubt it’s going to be soon.”

Jenny gave a grim nod, “The house looks like it is coming along nicely.”

“It is. We should be ready to host parties soon and thank god. I think it’s only a matter of time before the towns goes after the dance clubs with all this prohibition nonsense.”

“Speaking of dancing…” Jenny smiled.

Tamsyn knew as soon as she heard of Jenny’s arrival the real reason for her visit. “Do you want to wear one of my dresses tonight?”

“That would be wonderful.” Jenny nodded, “Guys like me in the yellow dress.”

Tamsyn smiled. “The upstairs plumbing is finally working. You need to try out my new bathtub before putting any clothes.”

Jenny said, “I don’t want to be a bother.”

Tamsyn said, “I insist. The combination of the fertilizer plant and a long walk has made you quite gamey today.”

“Shush, you.”

Every eye on the street turned as the two girls exited the car. The taller of the two spoke to the driver. “Stop back at ten-thirty. I need to be home by eleven.”

“Of course ma’am.”

They’d spent hours getting ready, their style consisting of the latest rage of short dresses, long necklaces, feathered hats, and cheeks painted dark with rouge. A man in a tweed suit bowed at their approach.

“Good evening ladies. May I take your coats?”

Both girls giggled, the shorter one answering, “Of course, James.”

The men at the bar smiled as the girls entered the room. Neither woman would pay for a single drink tonight. Sounds of the band getting ready echoed from the back of the club.

Tamsyn sat first, pulling a cigarette from her purse. Jenny followed her example. In a flash, a half dozen men with lighters appeared as if out of nowhere.

The girls smiled at each other while blowing out a long line of smoke, “Thank you, kind sirs.” Then both took first sips of many glasses of champagne. When the murmurs of their arrival settled, discussions in the bar returned to the standard fare.

“Christian do-gooders always want to ruin a good time.”
“I still can’t believe it passed.”
“I blame women. That’s what happens when you let them vote.”
“Hey!”

A younger man approached the table, “Hiya, Jenny. Hiya, Tamsyn.”

Jenny didn’t look amused, “What do you want, Stewy?”

“I … well … ummm …”

Jenny said, “Spit it out, Stewy.”

Tamsyn smiled at the poor kid Jenny had been torturing. He’d been two years behind them at school. A look at a nearby table showed four of his classmates laughing. They’d clearly put him up to this.

“Uhhh…”

Jenny laughed, “Cat got your tongue, Stewy?”

Tamsyn asked, “Perhaps you’d like to dance, Stewy?”

“I … ummm …”

Jenny gave Tamsyn a concerned look but played along, “The lady asked you a question, Stewy.”

“Stop tormenting the poor boy, Jenny.” Tamsyn said. She emptied her champagne glass as she stood, taking Stewy’s hand as she did so, and smiled at Stewy’s friends.

Tamsyn looked down at Stewy as she took his hand. She stood 5’7” in flats, and now was closer to 5’10” in her T-Strap heels. The boy’s hand was slick with sweat, but a pull showed he had a firm grip.

No one else was on the dance floor when the pair approached.

“I … I … don’t know what to do. I didn't think you agree.”

Tamsyn smiled as the band started to play. A look at Stewy’s table showed all four boys with mouths agape. Deciding to press her game further, Tamsyn pulled Stewy closer. “We’re doing a basic foxtrot. I’ll lead, you follow.” A trumpet sounded as Tamsyn took the first step.

*****

Tamsyn took off her heels after entering the house, then crept up the stairs. No sense in making it too easy for Mother McClary. The woman had spies everywhere, even in this house.

Eddie sat at his normal spot in Tamsyn’s bedroom when she arrived. “Did you have a good time?”

“They had a good band. Jenny and I danced most of the night.” Tamsyn rubbed the tops of her feet. “Do you remember Stewy Baldwin?”

Eddie shook his head.

“I figured as much. He was two years behind me at school.” She kissed the top of Eddie’s head. “The boy is not much of a dancer, but he’s eager to learn.”

Eddie smiled, “It sounds like you had fun.”

“You should join us next time. It’ll mean less grief from your mother and gossip from the townsfolk if you go with me.”

Eddie shook head, “I think we both know that’s not true.”

“The gossip or the grief?”

Eddie thought for a second before answering, “Both.”

Tamsyn stared at her husband’s emaciated body that had once been covered in muscles.

She said, “You look good tonight.”

Eddie said, “I thought part of our deal is to be truthful with each other.”

Tamsyn said, “I like the way you look.”

Eddie stood, the paint on his face a bit overdone, but he’d gotten better. For tonight, he’d chosen one of Tamsyn’s beaded formal gowns. The dress was a bit much for the bedroom, but Eddie didn’t seem to mind.

Tamsyn said, “I barely recognize you in that dress, Eddie. There’s places in Nashville where you and I could …”

“No.” Eddie shouted, “I can’t risk it.”

Tamsyn fell to her knees and pulled up Eddie’s dress. He’d fainted in embarrassment the first time she’d caught him in her closet.

Eddie groaned as Tamsyn took hold of his cock, already growing hard in anticipation. She stroked him slowly, relishing the feel of his silky skin against her fingers.

“You like it when I take control, don’t you Eddie.”

Eddie groaned, his eyes half-closed in pleasure.

Tamsyn leaned forward and took his full measure. Eddie hadn’t touched her for the first year after his return. For the longest time she blamed herself, blamed the war, and blamed her mother-in-law. She would have never guessed the real cause - not in a thousand years. She drew down on Eddie, her lips soft and warm against his throbbing cock.

“You know I love you, right?”

Eddie didn’t answer, his entire focus was on the nearby mirror.

It took less than a minute for her husband to cum. “Join me in my bed, Eddie. Just this once.”

Eddie shook his head. “I can’t.”

Tamsyn nodded. She knew the answer before she’d asked. This too was a part of her Saturday night dance. She refocused her attention on Eddie, waiting for him to grow so she might give her husband a small amount of relief.

‘DING-DONG-DING. DING-DONG-DING.’

The church bells sounded at half past eight, calling all within earshot of their need to be saved. Tamsyn sped down the streets in the Raceabout, knowing Eddie preferring to feel the wind in his hair versus the cramped quarters of their chauffeur’s car. A familiar girl waited in the parking lot when they arrived.

“You’re late.” Jenny said, her voice mimicking Mrs. McClary. After a moment she added, “Hiya Eddie.”

Eddie nodded. “Hi Jenny.”

Tamsyn preferred to arrive at a quarter til nine to let people get the gossip out of their system after she and Jenny had a wild Saturday night. Today, the eyes of the church followed the three of them as they entered and took their spots in the McClary family pew.

“Hiya boss.”

Mr. McClary stood, a frown firmly planted on his face as he responded. “Hello Jenny.”

Tamsyn said nothing as she took her spot. There was no point.

The sound of crying babies echoed throughout the hall, most of them perched on the laps of women still dressed in black. No one dared tell them to keep their children at home.

Ninety-four men joined the war from this town. Only thirty-two came home. The war had hit them harder than most. They said the boys of the town formed in a straight line before charging the German lines at Bellicourt. Eddie did his best to lead them. Jenny never blamed him for Adam’s death, but that wasn’t true for the rest of their friends.

Tamsyn smiled at Eddie and squeezed his hand. Eddie squeezed back.

Preacher Stevens gripped the altar tight before starting to speak.

“Beloved brothers and sisters, I must tell you of an evil that rots the core of our great town. It’s a devil we thought we’d destroyed when our great government passed the Prohibition Act. But the devil is a resourceful fellow, and so are his minions.”

“Alcohol is the devil’s greatest instrument. We know it leads to violence, to foolishness, and to wanton lust. Drinking greases the path to the devil, and those who follow him soon will find their lives headed down a dark path.”

“But drink is not the only vice in Satan’s arsenal. For when drink is combined with dancing it leads to great sin and immorality. The Bible says we should not let our eyes look in desire at those those not bound in matrimony, or our hearts and minds be filled with notions of lust. Drinking and dancing leads its victims away from God and to destruction and ruin.”

“The youth of this town are especially susceptible to this debauched behavior and if we do not act with vigilance, this town should soon become a new Sodom. The Devil is powerful, but God is greater. The Devil will lead you astray, and only those who stride the path of holiness will one day join those bright souls this town has lost.”

“In God’s name, we pray. Amen.”

Mrs. McClary gave a nod as she passed, “Good sermon today, Preacher Stevens.”

Tamsyn did her best not to react as their group exited the building. Not many people ever had a sermon personally crafted in their honor. It wouldn’t be the first time her mother-in-law made a large donation to make a point. Tamsyn nodded as she took the preacher’s hand, hoping to pass in silence. Preacher Stevens didn’t feel the same. He whispered,

“You’re in the town’s leading family, Tamsyn. I pray you act wiser in the future.”

Tamsyn couldn’t help but respond, “We only drank a little wine, Preacher Stevens, and danced a few dances.” Everyone in town knew Preacher Stevens had a thing for the sacramental wine. Tamsyn spoke loud enough so the whole building could hear. “Doesn’t the Bible tell us Jesus turned water into wine. How can wine be a bad thing if Jesus did that?”

Preacher Stevens didn’t raise his voice, “Do you presume to know God’s plan?”

Tamsyn thought for a moment and answered truthfully. “No.”

Preacher Stevens smiled knowing he’d won another battle of public perception, “Understanding is the path to holiness. If you learn that then perhaps there is hope for you yet, young lady.”

Tamsyn nodded and gave the man a formal curtsy. At least he called her a lady.

Mother McClary waited until the men had retired to the McClary household’s smoking room before speaking.

“Whore.”

Tamsyn said, “What did you say?”

She snarled, “You heard me.”

“I am not a whore.”

“The whole town is talking about how you spent last evening whoring around with young boys.”

“Stewy Baldwin is two years younger than me. He is not a young boy.”

“So you admit it?”

Tamsyn shook her head. “No. I mean…” This woman always got to her. “… we danced a couple of dances.”

“In the Den of the Devil.”

“It was harmless fun. Eddie knows all about it. He wants me to go dancing.”

Mother McClary said, “Eddie has not been himself since the war, and everyone is talking about how you are playing him for a fool. You’ve been nothing but a stain on my husband’s good name with the way you act.”

Tamsyn said,“Says the woman with a full wine cellar.”

The comment caught Mother McClary off guard, “What did you say?”

Tamsyn knew she should refrain, “Nothing.”

Mother McClary said, “Your venomous spirit is the reason God has not blessed us with a grandchild. You are full of poison, and if you continue down this path of immorality, God will continue to wither your womb and keep you barren.”

Tamsyn felt herself grow hot, “You would know about withered wombs.” Tamsyn wished she could pull the words back as soon as she said them.

Mother McCreary’s eyes popped from her head as words erupted from her mouth, “WHORE! JEZEBEL! GOLD-DIGGER!”

Her screams didn't until the two McClary men ran into the room. The older asked, “What is going on with all this shouting?”

Mother McCreary's face took on a crazed appearance. “I want this slut out of my house. I want her gone forever. I want her gone. GONE!” She ran screaming from the room, and headed down the stairs and into the basement.

Father McClary asked, “What did you say to her, Tamsyn?”

Tamsyn shook her head. “I’m sorry Dad. I went too far. I didn’t mean to, but you know how she treats me. I lost my temper.”

“What did you say?”

Tamsyn said, “I’d rather not repeat it, sir.”

Father McClary sighed. “I think it’s best if you and Eddie go home.”

The car zipped through the countryside. Tamsyn decided to take the scenic route to cool off.

Eddie said, “Dad told me he wants me at the factory tomorrow at eight o’clock sharp.”

“You aren’t ready to face them Eddie. Not yet.”

Eddie shrugged. “He said he thinks I need a routine. He says it’ll straighten me out. He thinks maybe it’ll straighten us out.”

Tamsyn could see the tears forming in Eddie’s eyes. “Your Dad doesn’t understand you like I do. You aren’t ready. The doctors are worried you'll have a relapse.”

Eddie said, “I can’t say no to him.”

Tamsyn said, “We could move. We could move away and create our own lives.”

“You know I can’t, Tamsyn.” Eddie looked out at the window and far into the distance. “You said it yourself, I’m not strong enough.”

“You are strong, Eddie.” Tamsyn said, “We can do anything together.”

Eddie didn’t respond. The look in his eye showed he’d gone to the dark place he lived when the memories got to be too much. They drove home in silence.

---

---

It shouldn’t be a big deal. All Billy's friends have visited the widow's house and each seemed to come away better for the experience. Visiting her has been a rite of passage for boys in town for as long as anyone can remember.

Billy knows he should want this. The whispers about him have been growing and even his friends are starting to ask questions. Tonight is the night if he's going to end the rumors. Should it matter if it’s Halloween and there’s a full moon in the sky?

---

Chapter 11

Candles filled every window. Billy asked, “Does this place have electricity?”

“Some. My husband planned to wire every room, but well …” Tamsyn’s voice went silent.

“You don’t have electricity?”

“It saves us a lot of money.”

Billy looked at the ceiling where a couple dozen candles flashed through the chandelier, “You must spend it on candles.”

“My husband left me more than enough money to keep this place going.” Tamsyn fidgeted and changed the subject. “Would you like to see our library?”

Billy looked at the ceiling. Large cobwebs covered every corner. “I guess.”

“It’s over here.”

Tamsyn pointed to a room with double doors. A huge piece of wood lay across both barring the door. Clasped on the front was a chain lock making it impossible for anyone to get inside without a key.

Billy asked, “Is this your safe room?”

“Safe?” Tamsyn smiled as she pulled the keychain from her cloak’s pocket. “Hardly.”

Tamsyn unlocked the chain. Billy pushed the heavy wooden bar up until stood vertical and clicked into place. “Someone definitely wanted this room to be secure.”

“Yeah. We didn’t know this room existed until we’re at the end of construction. You can still see where plaster covered both doors. Notice the damage to the door frame? The contractors did that when they started to tear down the wall and found the room instead.”

“Did you find treasure inside?” Billy ran a hand over the door frame. A battering ram would have a tough time getting through the heavy oak.

“Someone went to a lot of trouble to keep anyone from getting inside.”

“Treasure? No.” Tamsyn lit another cigarette. “This room’s original purpose was as an office for the rector who built this place. He plastered it over when he had to sell.”

“That’s odd.”

“I thought so too.” Tamsyn opened the door revealing a decent sized room. Bookshelves lined the walls and rose to the ceiling. Only a few were empty. “We found thousands of pages of documents inside.” She pointed to the shelves.

“He left them behind?”

Tamsyn said, “I later learned the man had borrowed heavily to build this place. The banks don’t care if you are a man of god if you fall behind on your payments. The stories say he left in a hurry when the creditors came calling. Some claim he went east to hide with family. Others say he moved north and started a new church.”

Leather-bound books filled most of the shelves. A large desk and chair sat near the front of the room. Pieces of old paper lay strewn all over the desk.

Billy said, “This place smells old.”

“It is old.”

“These books must have cost a fortune.”

“Yeah. I figure accumulating them was part of why this place went bankrupt.“ Tamsyn said, “Some of these books are priceless. One of a kind works.”

Billy asked, “Why didn’t he sell them to save his church?”

Tamsyn shrugged, “You’d have to ask him.”

A large oil painting filled the wall behind the rector’s desk. The image showed several bodies on the ground while a nearby black-clad priest appeared to be performing a rite. One of his hands touched a kneeling woman’s bosom. The other was raised to the heavens. Onlookers watched in horror, fear evident on their faces as the faint outline of a foul-looking apparition flew out of the woman’s body.

Tamsyn asked, “Do you like the painting?”

“What is it called?”

“I call it 'The Lady in Red' but I don’t know its real name. From the man’s writings, it was clear the rector had an obsession with the occult and exorcisms. Most of the books in this room concern the subject.”

Billy couldn’t stop staring at the image. “It gives me the creeps.”
“Yeah. It’s grown on me over the years.”

Billy shook his head, “Is the painting as old as the books?”

Tamsyn said, “I have no idea. Maybe? Probably? I don’t know. The artist didn’t sign his work. I do know most of the books in here are hundreds of years old. A majority date to the era of the Salem Witch Trials. A few are most likely older. Some have writing so faint it’s hard to make out the words.”

A large tome lay on the rector’s desk opened to its title page. “The Grand Grimoire?”

Tamsyn nodded, “I know a bit about the history of that one. The original sits in secret Catholic vaults inside the Vatican. The reactor must have known some very powerful people to get a copy.”

Billy said, “I’m surprised no one has tried to steal it.”

Tamsyn said, “Hence the bar on the door. Besides, I doubt anyone knows it’s here.”

Billy said, “I know it’s here.”

Tamsyn grinned, “Are you going to try to steal my books, Billy?”

Billy shook his head. “I’m surprised you showed it to me.”

Tamsyn put her hand on Billy’s shoulder. “It’s like I said earlier. You’re a special boy Billy. I have a good feeling about you.”

The hairs on the back of Billy’s neck stood as Tamsyn spoke. He backed away from the desk, “I think I’ve seen enough.”

Tamsyn asked, “Is everything ok?”

Billy shook his head, “I don’t feel so good.”

Tamsyn said, “Would you like some water and some aspirin? Or maybe you’d prefer Gunther bring us some lemonade.”

“No.” The thought of drinking anything made Billy want to hurl. “Combining wine and champagne might have been a bad idea.” He pulled off the cloak and night robe to find a fine layer of sweat covering his body.

“Are you cold?”

“No.” Billy shook his head. “I’m hot.” He should be freezing cold in this drafty house wearing only a chemise and bloomer. “Is this room extra hot?”

Tamsyn gave Billy a curious look. “It feels fine to me.”

He stared at Tamsyn, wearing nothing but women’s underwear and feeling his panic grow. It was the first time he’d ever allowed someone to see him dressed in this fashion. “I should go.”

Tamsyn moved between Billy and the door. “My husband was a cross-dresser and hid that part of himself from me for a long time. Our relationship didn’t improve until he broke down and told me the truth.”

“I’m not…” Billy tried to walk out but Tamsyn intercepted him, and being stronger than she appeared, held him fast in a bear hug. “… you don’t understand.”

Tamsyn whispered in Billy’s ear. “There’s nothing wrong with you.” Billy fell to the floor when she let him go.

Billy thought of his Mother’s closet. Memories of the shame. “I’m a freak.”

“You’re not.”

Billy stared out the door. He wanted to run. He wanted to hide. “The guys said you’d make me a man if I came here. I hoped maybe …”

“I can’t change who you are, Billy.”

“My Eddie pushed his desire behind a handsome smile and an athletic body but no one can hide from themselves forever.”

“No one can know. If anyone saw me dressed like this…” Tears flowed from Billy’s eyes.

“Do your schoolmates call you names? Things like queer … faggot … sissy?”

Billy nodded.

“Kids are so predictable and so cruel. Only the truly brave among us can rise above the pressure of conformity and become the person we were meant to be.”

Billy nodded. “If they saw me like this…”

“The teasing would never stop.” Tamsyn nodded, “My husband was six years old the first time he discovered the joys of his Mom’s closet. It didn’t matter if money allowed him to cover his secret.”

A puddle of tears lay at Billy’s feet.

Tamsyn put her arm around Billy, “A mind can deny its true self for a limited time. My Eddie hid behind the facade of an alpha male. He even joined the army when the nation went to war.”

“Your husband was a soldier?”

Tamsyn nodded, “The horror of what he saw broke him. When the authorities found Eddie, he was living in a whorehouse, dressed like one of the girls. My father-in-law paid a small fortune to destroy all records of the arrest to hide his son’s secrets but I don’t think he and Eddie ever spoke about it. It took me a few years to discover the truth but an attentive wife always learns her husband’s secrets. Learning them allowed me to understand Eddie in a way I never could before and in the end, find the depths of our love.”

“My situation is different.” Billy looked down. “You don’t understand.”

Tamsyn said, “I understand better than you think.”

Billy’s hands began to shake, “I can’t let anyone find out.”

“Trust me, Billy.” Tamsyn took Billy’s hand. “I understand.” She pulled him tight to her breast. “Would you like to see my husband’s closet? I’m sure he has some things that will fit you.”

“Your husband’s clothes?” Billy shook his head. “I can’t. I’m sure my friends are getting worried.”
Tamsyn gave Billy a look. “Do you really think your friends are worried you’re spending too much time with me? If anything, they’re jealous.”

“I guess.” Billy thought for a second and had to agree. “I’m surprised Rocky hasn’t come up here and looked in a window.”

“I hope he doesn’t try. Gunther isn’t much of a housekeeper but he is quite good at keeping the unwanted guests from appearing at my door.”

“I bet.” Billy thought of the hulking mass of a man, “But I do need to go. I’m sure my parents are getting worried.”

“Aren’t you forgetting something?” She pointed at Billy’s crotch.

Billy looked down to see he was still wearing bloomers. “Shit.”

Tamsyn said, “Gunther should finish your pants in the next hour. In the meantime we could visit the solarium if you don’t want to try on clothing. I’ve got the telescope set up – did you know tonight’s the night of a Hunter’s Moon? – there’s not many clouds so we should get a great look.” Tamsyn stared at Eddie’s crotch, “And once we’re done, you and I can have sex under the stars.”

Billy looked down and felt nothing. If anything it looked like his penis had shrunk. “Anything is better than staying in this room.”

Tamsyn pointed to the stairs on the left as they exited the library. “Those stairs will take you. I’ll be right behind you.”

Chapter 12

March, 1921

Jenny smiled, “You’ve done amazing things with this place. It looks like the whole town is coming tonight.”

Dozens of fancy cars already filled the new parking lot and people had started parking on the grass. Tamsyn watched from the second story porch as more headlights made their way up the winding hill.

“People want a place to drink and to dance.”

“You should take some credit.”

Tamsyn turned and smiled when she saw Eddie had joined them. She took his hand.

Eddie squeezed her hand gently, “Every man wants a beautiful woman on his arm.”

Jenny looked skeptical, “I’m starting to think this place isn’t much different than my new workplace. It’s the same as always but in fancier dress.”

Eddie said, “I could ask Dad to take you back.”

“I doubt Jenny will agree.” Tamsyn laughed, “She’s making double the salary you paid her at her new job.”

Eddie said, “Money isn’t everything.”

Jenny said, “That’s easy to say when you have money.”

Eddie adjusted the pink corsage on his black tuxedo, “You could bring some work friends here if you want.” He pulled on the edge of his bowtie to straighten it. “The more the merrier.”

Jenny gave a surprised look. “Really?”

Eddie said, “I doubt this crowd will mind.”

Tamsyn sighed. She knew who’d get the blame.

The smell of cigars and whiskey filled the air. Gentlemen in tuxedos and women in gowns filled the elegant ballroom. Tamsyn floated down the stairs in a gown meant to capture everyone’s attention. It did that and more.

Gunther asked, “Is something wrong, ma’am?”

Tamsyn said, “No. I’m nervous. There’s a lot of people here.”

Gunther’s face remained impassive, “You’ll be fine ma’am. The caterers have set out a spread worthy of a king, the booze is flowing, and the band is about to start playing. All we need is someone to kick things off.”

Tamsyn looked up the stairs towards her husband’s room. She’d hoped he might stick around, but she should have known better. Every eye in the room watched as her long gown floated down the stairs behind her.

“Welcome. Welcome. Welcome.” Tamsyn’s voice boomed out over the crowd as she waited for them to settle down. “Welcome to our home.” She smiled when Eddie’s face appeared from above, leaning against the second floor railing.

She pointed towards him. “My husband and I thank you for coming tonight. This house is his dream, and I’m glad he’s able to share it with good friends from our town.”

Tamsyn looked out at the group she’d referred to as their friends. She knew most had come here for the free booze. As a business leader it was important for Eddie to socialize.

She pointed to the table full of food. “Eat up.” The line of people told they needed no encouragement.

She pointed to the bar. “The booze is on us. Soo...” A cheer drowned out her words. She pointed to the band. “Hit it maestro.”

Seconds later, the pounding beat of a drummer announced the start of the dancing.

When Tamsyn looked up at the second floor balcony, she saw Eddie had disappeared.

Jenny asked, “Is everything ok?”

Tamsyn nodded. She’d given up trying to change him. He was spending more and more time at work and less and less with her. All she wanted was for him to be happy but pointless to complain. Others had it worse.

Tamsyn turned to Jenny. “Want to join me on the dance floor?”

“I thought you’d never ask.

A dozen men followed them as did the single girls lucky enough to score an invite. Before long, Tamsyn found herself dancing a foxtrot with Stewy who’d clearly taken lessons since their last dance.

Everything was okay. It was more than okay. Their life was perfect. Tamsyn repeated the thought again and again. A lie isn’t a lie if you repeat it enough times to believe it.

“Eddie?” Tamsyn put a key in the lock and opened the door. Eddie sat at his dressing table.

“People are starting to leave. Are you sure you don’t want to clean up and come downstairs?”

“I can’t.” Eddie’s face was covered with a mixture of powers, cremes, and colorings making him look quite feminine.

“You’ve gotten good at that.”

Eddie sighed. “I can’t change who I am, Tamsyn.”

She pushed down her anger. “I’m not asking you to change.”

The sound of footsteps in the hall put an end to their discussion. Tamsyn ran to secure the door’s lock, before the interloper entered, finding herself and Jenny hitting the door at the same time. Both ended up on the floor. Jenny laughed through glazed eyes.

“I shot I shaw you cum in ‘ere.”

“Get out of here, Jenny.” Tamsyn pulled on her friend’s arm as Eddie turned to hide his face.

Jenny had drunk enough for two parties, clearly nearing the pass out stage but she wasn’t so inebriated as to make her blind. “Eddish?”

Eddie stood, his face full of fury as he looked at Tamsyn. “I told you this party was a mistake.”

Tamsyn tried to step between her friend and her husband. “I’m sorry.”

Jenny said, “You wook amashzing Eddiesh.”

Eddie wasn’t listening, “My life is ruined.”

“Jenny is good at keeping secrets, aren’t you Jenny?” Tamsyn said, pushing back the memory of Jenny’s morning gossip sessions at the factory.

Jenny’s brain was too pickled to respond. “You wok rike won of does girlsh at da burlecksh.”

Eddie looked at Jenny then looked at Tamsyn, “Ruined…”

“Jenny.” Tamsyn shouted, hoping to wake her friend from her stupor. “Promise Eddie you won’t say anything about the way he’s dressed. It’s a prank. A lark. Do you understand me?”

Eddie stood, the full length sequined dress brushing the floor.

Jenny bowed before him, “...herro Lady Ed-mina.” Her words fell into a jumble.

Eddie looked at Tamsyn. “Ruined. It’s all ruined.”

Jenny shook her head. “... you rook amuzshing …”

Eddie said, “Bah!”

Jenny looked like she was trying to sound as serious. “I knows abut you nnndd Adam. He toooold meee everyshing.”

“Everything?”

Jenny shrugged, “My Adam wush a must bootiful manz.”

“Why don't you hate me?”

“You luvved him.”

Eddie said, “You weren’t there.”

Jenny ran to Eddie and fell into his arms. “I mish Adam. Tell meez. Will yu tell meee wut happund?”

“I can’t.”

“Pleeeezsh.”

Tamsyn watched as her husband fell to his knees and Jenny fell down with him. They lay in each others arms for a good ten minutes as tears fell from their faces. Eddie spoke in a slow cadence. “I see the whole thing every time I close my eyes. One whistle to charge. Two whistles to retreat. I blew the whistle twice but they didn’t stop. My friends fell one by one.”

“Thatchs it? A wishshul?”

"They couldn't hear me." Eddie nodded. “Something so stupid and now they're dead. All dead.”

“Itsh ok, Ed-dy. I dont blaim you.”

“I’m here and Adam isn’t.”

“You luvved hem. We bowf did."”

Tamsyn watched as her best friend and her husband lay on the floor. The first kiss was a kiss exchanged between friends. The second was more intense. Years of unresolved emotions flowed between them as both tried to make sense of the senseless. Tamsyn knew it was time to go when Eddie grabbed for Jenny’s tits.

It’d been two years since the Battle of Bellicourt. As far as Tamsyn knew, this was the first time Eddie had told anyone what had happened. Doctors had worked for years to get Eddie to talk about it. Tamsyn never pried, the doctors told her it would make things worse. Jenny gets drunk and Tamsyn's femmed-up husband spills his guts.

Tamsyn exited the room as quiet as she could. She had guests.

“Is everything ok, ma’am?”

Tamsyn wiped away a tear before turning to the door. “Don’t call me ma’am, Gunther. It makes me feel old.”

“Of course, ma’am.” Gunther’s face remained impassive.

Tamsyn sighed. “I thought the party went well.”

“I did too. The staff and I will be up half the night cleaning.”

Tamsyn said, “Give them the night off. The cleaning can wait until morning.”

“Are you sure?”

Tamsyn looked towards the bed and then motioned for Gunther to get in. “I’m sure.”

Chapter 13

The circular stairs to the third floor were much steeper than the ones they’d used to get to Tamsyn's bedroom. A brass handrail made it easier to climb, but the wood creaked with every step.

Billy called out. “How old are these stairs?”

Tamsyn called back. “They’re plenty strong, but watch your step. It gets steeper near the top, and it’d be a shame if you fell and broke your neck.”

Tamsyn wasn’t kidding about it getting steeper. The stairs were more like a ladder, flush with the wall which made it hard for light to reach the area on the brightest of days. At this hour, it was almost pitch black. Billy reached for the next rung and found himself floating into the blackness as a cold chill pressed from below.

“Tamsyn!”

“I’m right behind you, Billy. You’re doing great.”

Billy tried to breathe, but the chill of the night grew darker. “I can’t see a thing.”

“You’re almost there.”

Billy stepped and he pulled, then felt something solid, using it to pull himself up the final part.

“You made it.”

Billy couldn’t see a thing but heard Tamsyn following.

“Is that you, Tamsyn?”

He got no answer, only the flash of a lighter, which blinded him for a moment. Billy closed then reopened his eyes seeing a faint red dot at the end of Tamsyn’s ridiculously long cigarette holder. It grew bright, showing her face for a second, then disappeared as the hallway plunged again into darkness.

“Who else would it be?”

Billy asked, “Where are the candles? It's pitch black.”

Tamsyn lit one candle with her lighter and then another. “Gunther doesn't t come up here.”

“Oh?” A chill ran up Billy’s spine.

"Few people are allowed up here." Tamsyn said, “This place was my husband’s refuge, his sanctuary from the world. I’ve tried to keep it that way since he passed.”

Billy nodded, looking around the hallway. It was filled with paintings and sculptures, each one more beautiful than the last. But there was something unsettling about the whole place. It was as if the art had a life of its own.

Tamsyn noticed Billy’s discomfort. “Don’t worry, Billy. My husband’s art collection can be quite intimidating at first.”

“I’ve never seen anything like this,” Billy said, studying a painting of a woman with eyes that seemed to follow him as he walked past.

“That’s one of my favorites,” Tamsyn said. “It’s called ‘The Lady of the Night Sky.’”

“It’s beautiful,” Billy said, his unease not lessening in the least.

Looking up the dimly lit hallway, a feeling of curiosity and fear grew as shivers shot down his spine.

Tamsyn took his hand to lead him through the hallway. In the distance Billy a few candles flickered on the walls. They passed a door that was slightly ajar. Inside moonlight streamed in from every window.

“Was that the solarium?” Billy asked.

“I want you to see something in my husband’s bedroom.”

Tamsyn pulled Billy along, past another series of ornate doors which must lead to more bedrooms. All the doors had old fashioned locks and all appeared to be in use. Tamsyn stopped in front of a door near the end of the hall, and produced an odd looking key from her pocket.

“Here we are,” she said, putting the key in the lock and opening the door.

The image of the girl in the picture faded, it looked like it was a hundred years old.

“That’’s you?”

“Yes.”

“Did you put the picture through the wash?”

Tamsyn smiled, “This picture started everything.”

The photographer must have used a vintage photo filter to age it. “Is it from your wedding day?”

Tamsyn shook her head. “It was taken a year later. Eddie was overseas and asked me to send him a nudey picture so I sent him that.”

Billy said, “It looks good. You look amazing.” He held up the picture and compared it to Tamsyn’s face. Even in black and white it appeared like she hadn’t aged a day.

Tamsyn walked into the closet. “That picture caused a scandal when it resurfaced.”

“Seriously?” Billy had seen dozens of worse pictures of girls from school who’d sent selfies to their boyfriends.

Tamsyn threw out a pair of heels out of the closet, which landed on the floor. “Times have changed since I was in school.”

Billy stared at the picture. The girl staring back had a brightness in her dark eyes. Long black hair framed her face. “There’s something different about you in this picture.”

“I was seventeen.”

“It’s not that.”

Tamsyn exited the closet holding a white dress. “Does this look familiar?”

Billy looked at the picture and then back to the dress. “Same one?”

Tamsyn nodded. “I bring it out on special occasions.” She held it up, the soft fabric brushing against Billy’s skin. “I thought you might want to try it on.”

“That dress will never fit me.”

“You might be surprised. My husband made alterations so it would fit him.” She pointed at several cut marks on the back and others on the front.

“Wow. What’s that?”

“My husband made those on our wedding night. It took me two hours to get into the thing. He got me out of it in under a minute using his combat knife.”

“Damn.”

Tamsyn held it up. “Step into the dress.”

Billy stepped in..

“Put your arms through the sleeves.”

Billy did that too.

Tamsyn pulled the material around on both sides. “The day of my wedding a seamstress sewed me into this damned thing. It was so tight, I didn’t eat a bite the week of our wedding to make sure it looked good.”

“Your wedding sounds amazing.”

Tamsyn nodded. “It was a happy day. Eddie and me. My Mom and the McClary’s. All our friends from high school were there.” She sighed. “We thought it would last forever.”

“I’m sure.” Billy nodded, not sure what else to say.

Tamsyn took a deep breath. “Today is a happy day too.”

“It is?”

“I find it’s always a good day when someone starts to accept the truth of their nature.” Tamsyn smiled.

“I guess.”

Tamsyn said, “Let’s do your make-up.”

Chapter 14

September, 1921

A line of people stood outside waiting to get in as the band played another jazz tune.

Stewy shouted over the mob, “It’s hard to believe you and Eddie run this place.”

“Why’s it so hard?”

Stewy said, “I can’t imagine being in charge of something so … fancy.”

Tamsyn drew on her cigarette. She could tell he wanted to use a word other than ‘fancy’, “It wasn’t so hard. Contractors fixed up the place and I’ve got an amazing house manager who keeps the staff in line. Jenny and her contacts do the rest.”

“You aren’t you worried?”

Tamsyn pointed to a man on a couch holding a cigar and a glass of champagne. Two pretty young girls sat on either side of him, “That’s the chief of police over there. The man has a specific kink that his wife could never satisfy, and the public would never understand.” She pointed to a man talking to Jenny. “Do you know that guy?”

Billy shook his head.

“That’s Manny Brown. Do you recognize the name?”

Billy shook his head again.

“You would if you ran a place like this.” Tamsyn smiled. “He runs the Dixie Brotherhood.”

Billy’s eyes widened. “A criminal?”

Tamsyn nodded. “It’s the way of the world, Billy.”

Stewy raised an eyebrow. “You’re not afraid of getting caught?”

Tamsyn flicked her cigarette into an ashtray. “We have good connections, we’re out of sight, and we pay well. Eddie’s Dad owns half the businesses in town and all the politicians. Mother McClary isn’t happy, but everyone can see Eddie is happier than he’s been in a long time. We’re doing great.”

Stewy shifted uncomfortably. “I don’t know, Tamsyn. It seems risky.”

Tamsyn put a hand on his shoulder. “It’s not riskier than any other way of making a living. It’s certainly more exciting.”

Stewy nodded slowly. “I suppose you’re right.”

The band finished their song, and the crowd erupted into applause. The singer took a bow, and the band started playing another tune.

Tamsyn smiled. “Of course I am, Stewy.” She raised her glass. “Would you like to dance?”

The young man smiled. “I thought you’d never ask.”

Stewy nodded eagerly, and Tamsyn led him out onto the dance floor. The two moved in sync with the music. Tamsyn felt alive. She felt something else when she pressed close to his waist.

“Stewy…” Tamsyn cooed, “I didn’t know you thought of me like that.”

The boy blushed.

Truth be told, Tamsyn didn’t like to drink alcohol but she loved to dance and drinking and dancing went together like peas and carrots. To get crowds to dance, you needed alcohol. To get alcohol, you needed Manny Brown. To get Manny Brown meant adding vice. Do not disturb signs hung from half the rooms in the building, each with one of Manny’s girls inside. Jenny surprised everyone with her deft handling of the whole thing. The kickbacks they received was enough to make a payoff to every politician in the city so they could keep it running.

And there were fringe benefits.

Tamsyn whispered in Stewy’s ear. “Meet me in Room 203.

“Really?”

“Be there in five minutes.”

Jenny stood on the stage and waited for the crowd to settle down. “Next… fresh from her appearances at Nashville’s Smokey Row … and making her triumphant return to our stage … Della Rose.”

The crowd roared when the feather bespectacled woman appeared, a long crimson dress hugging wide curves, and long curly blonde hair cascading down her back. When she turned to the crowd, the band hit their cue, and began to play her signature tune.

“Grab a drink and take a seat, the show’s about to start,
I’ve got a tale of passion sweet, about a friendly heart,
With hips which sway like ocean waves,
And lips as red a wine,
This melody will tempt you,
of forbidden dreams divine.”
So don’t be shy and close your eyes.
Let our fantasy unwind.

Men swayed with the music, their fascination with the moving feathers holding them in a trance. It didn’t seem possible a simple mind trick could fool a crowd this large, but after several tests they brought Eddie’s act to the main stage. Tamsyn couldn’t help a twinge of jealousy at seeing her husband dominate the entire room with the power of his voice.

I’ll make every dream come true, you need just to come inside
My boudoir holds the key, my dears, to pleasure satisfied.
Just tell me all your deepest fears and let me take control.
For pleasure is a fleeting act, to make us all feel full.
The acts we do both here and now, grow fainter day by day.
Tomorrow comes and dreams be gone, but never go away.

Stewy said, “She’s amazing.”

Tamsyn watched as Eddie made his way off the stage, the crowd none the wise. “Do you recognize her?”

“Della?” Stewy shook his head. “You say she’s from Nashville? I don’t get up there much.”

“Me neither.” Tamsyn nodded. “They loaned her to us for a special appearance. It cost a fortune to get her down here.”

“I bet.”

Eddie’s acts fired up the town’s leading men who’d abandoned the ball room en masse, now headed for a visit with one of Manny Brown’s girls.

Tamsyn asked, “Would you like to meet Della?”

“Sure.”

“Follow me.” Tamsyn weaved through the crowd and found Eddie holding court with his fans near the back of the stage.

“Della … this is Stewy Baldwin. Stewy … this is Della Rose.”

Eddie gave a curtsy and a half bow. “Charmed.”

Stewy’s eyes grew wide and he gave a bow. “You’re amazing, Della Rose.”

Eddie smiled. “Thank you, young man.”

Eddie spoke with a smoky high pitched voice he’d practiced for years. Tamsyn hadn’t seen a smile this big on her husband’s face since the day they first met. “That was quite a song.”

Eddie said, “I worked on it all week.”

Tamsyn looked at the dance floor. “You cleared out the crowd.”

“They’ll be back. I have another set in a half hour.”

“You’re getting pretty cocky Ed…elle.” The name had started as a little joke between Tamsyn and Eddie, soon becoming the name they used when he dressed ‘en femme’ in front of the staff. It had been one of their tests before going public but none of them seemed to be able to link the name with the person behind the makeup or if they had, they’d hid it very well.

Eddie turned with fear in his eyes.

Stewy looked Eddie and then at Tamsyn. “Edelle? Is that your real name?”

“I’m so sorry, Della.” Tamsyn said in mock embarrassment. “Della Rose is her stage name. Don’t tell anyone her real name. She values her privacy and you know how some fans can get.”

“Of course.” Stewy nodded, “I won’t tell a soul … Della.” He winked. “It’ll be between us.”

Eddie didn’t say a word as he retreated to the stage, grabbing the microphone. He tapped it three times causing all eyes to stop what they were doing turn and look.

“Is everyone having a good time tonight?”

The crowds shouted back in drunken cheer.

Eddie turned, his focus directly on Tamsyn, “I want to thank the lady of the house for all she’s done to put together tonight’s festivities.” Eddie smiled. “I’m forever in your debt.”

Tamsyn looked out over the crowd as they returned a smattering of applause.

Eddie didn’t say anything for a moment, seeming lost in thought.

Someone from the crowd shouted. “Give us a song.”

Eddie woke from his stupor. “It’s not time for my set but …”

Crowd cheered, then began to chanting. “Song… song… song…”

“Well … if you insist.” giving a broad smile. “This one’s for you Tamysn.”

The crowd watched in rapt attention as Eddie focused on giving them Della once again. His words came out sweet and sultry.

“This melody will tempt you, of forbidden dreams divine. Don’t be shy and close your eyes. And let the fantasy unwind.”

Stewy said, “She’s amazing.”

Tamsyn nodded, “She really is.”

Tamsyn sensed the presence enter her room. She asked, “Is everyone gone?”

“Most everyone. A few always like to stay past their welcome, and it’s best to handle certain personalities with care.”
Tamsyn nodded. “Of course.” She’d changed into a nightgown, foregoing underwear of any kind.

“I saw you with the boy.”

Tamsyn said, “Stewy?”

“Yeah.”

Tamsyn asked, “Jealous?”

“Not in the least. I like watching other men fuck you.”

Tamsyn laughed. Stewy wasn’t bad in bed, but didn’t have Gunther’s gifts.

Tamsyn patted the bed beside her, and tearing open her robe to reveal both breasts. “Come and warm me, Gunther.”

“Are you sure, madam?”

“Don’t play games, Gunther.”

Gunther took his time, first shutting the door then taking off his shirt, shoes, and pants. Tamsyn knew he was trying to tease her, but she liked to take it slow. She smiled when the man’s strong arms grabbed her shoulders.

“Would you like me to fuck you now, ma’am?”

Gunther’s cock was already seven inches, and a single touch from her would make it grow to its full twelve. Tamsyn drew back the first time she’d seen it. Now, she couldn’t get enough. She’d bedded dozens of other men in the last year, but no one else came close to this man’s skill.

“Fuck me, Gunther.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

The preacher’s car took a long time to climb the slope. Tamsyn had a tray with two glasses and wine bottle waiting on the porch by the time he arrived.

She asked, “Has this place become such a den of sin you’ve chosen to visit on a Sunday?”

“No, just out for a drive. We did miss you at church today.” Tamsyn saw the man staring at the glass of wine on her table. “You have a pretty view.”

“You’ve never been up here?”

Preacher Stevens stared towards his church. “Nope. First time.”

Tamsyn said, “Have you come up here to scold me about our parties?”

Preacher Stevens shook his head. “People think men like me have all the answers. God knows that’s not the case. I have a responsibility to the community, and I do the best I can. The same is true of you and Eddie.”

Tamsyn needled the man, “You say you didn’t come to scold?”

“That’s not my intent.” Preacher Stevens sighed, “I do wonder if the leading citizens of a town flaunt their ability to act against the rules, what does that say to those who don’t have your advantages. Where does it end?”

“I don’t know.” Tamsyn took a deep breath, proud she didn’t return any snark. “I’m sure you’ve seen the changes in Eddie. He’s done better in the last six months than he did seeing a dozen specialists and sitting through hundreds of sermons.”

Preacher Stevens nodded, “Like I said… I don’t have all the answers.”

Tamsyn held up her glass. “Care for a drink?”

Preacher Stevens said, “I’ve got to go. The evening service starts in a few hours.”

“Of course.” Tamsyn decided to up the ante. “You can take the bottle if you want.”

Preacher Stevens gave a tired smile, “Trying to tempt me?”

“Just pointing out the hypocrisy.”

Preacher Stevens shook his head. “Wine meant for the sacrament is not against the law.”

Tamsyn said, “Would you prefer I send a case?”

“If that’s what you want, Tamsyn. The church is always grateful for donations. You know the address and you are always welcome at god’s house.” Preacher Stevens smiled, “Now, I must be going. There are lots of lost souls in this town and limited hours in a day.”

Tamsyn watched as the preacher’s car moved down the hill, not sure if his visit was to scold them for their parties or a shakedown to procure another case of wine. It was probably best not to know.

Chapter 15

“I can’t believe how good this feels.” Billy shook his head. It was the first time he’d ever crossdressed in front of another person.

Tamsyn didn’t appear judgemental. “It looks good on you.”

Billy nodded, “The silk feels amazing on my skin.”

“You don’t want to know how much it cost.”

“I’m sure I don’t.” Billy stood up, material pulling at his legs, but not enough to impair him. He barely recognized himself with the way Tamsyn painted his face. “I look like a girl.”

“You are a girl, Billy.”

Billy ran his hand through his hair. “It feels so real.”

“It is real hair. The wigs my husband bought used real human hair. They’re prohibitively expensive, but once you’ve tried them, nothing else will do.”

Billy twirled in his shoes.

Tamsyn said, “I see you’ve practiced walking in heels.”

“Only when Mom and Dad aren’t around.”

“Of course.”

Billy’s smile grew. “I feel so … different.”

Tamsyn said, “That’s because you’re letting the real you out, Billy. You’ve spent your life hiding from the world.”

“I can’t…”

Tamsyn nodded. “I understand Billy. My husband was afraid to show himself to the world and lived in a pit of darkness so deep and for so long no one recognized his vibrant spirit when it finally emerged from its shell. We need to show you off to the world.”

“What?”

Tamsyn pulled Billy out the door, leading him out of the room and down the hallway.

The light filling the solarium struck him dumb with its beauty. The walls were made of glass, giving a view of the countryside in every direction. Tamsyn led him to a plush couch in the center of the room, next to a table holding several ashtrays full of discarded cigarettes.

Tamsyn handed Billy a glass of champagne. “Let’s drink to new beginnings.”

Billy looked up. A full moon and millions of stars shone down from above, and trees surrounded them in every direction. His friends waited in those woods, surely drunk by now. He hoped they weren’t so drunk they’d forgotten the binoculars. Because if they turned their binoculars on this room, they’d see a woman.

And nothing made Billy happier.

Chapter 16

November, 1921

Tamsyn and Eddie sat on their porch when the car began to climb the slope.

“Are we expecting your parents today?”

Eddie shook his head. “They aren’t supposed to come over until Sunday.”

Tamsyn smiled at her husband. His nighttime shouts from the solarium had grown less frequent. The extra rest brought color back to his face.

She pointed down the hill. “That’s their car, isn’t it?”

Eddie nodded once, then looked over at Tamsyn. Tamsyn motioned to Gunther.

“Be a dear, and get someone to prepare us a light meal. Finger sandwiches, cookies, and tea would be perfect.”

Gunther asked, “No wine?”

Tamsyn looked at Eddie, who shook his head. “No wine.”

Gunther bowed, “Of course, ma’am.”

The car inched closer and closer but coming closer every second.

Eddie had claimed this hill was so steep, he and his buddies could have held this hill against a battalion of Germans. Tamsyn sighed. Surely she could hold it against one bitter old woman?

Mrs. McClary stormed into the house.

Tamsyn said, “Gunther. Please take her coat.” She felt Eddie put his arm around her in a protective manner.

“No need, Gunther.” Mrs. McClary’s face looked scarlet as she stormed into the sitting room. “I won’t be staying long.” She stared at her son. “Leave us Eddie, Tamsyn and I need to speak. Alone.”

Eddie gave Tamsyn a look and she nodded. He took a step back, retreating behind the room’s double doors. Gunther pulled them shut.

Mrs. McClary tossed something on the table. “Would you care to explain this?”

Tamsyn’s heart sank when she saw it. It had been years. The picture had frayed around the edges but the image was clear. It was a girl in her wedding dress, the top half pulled down to her waist, with boobs on full display.

“I …”Tamsyn cried out, “… I can explain.”

“Save it.”

Tamsyn said, “There’s an innocent explanation.”

Venom spit as Mrs. McClary’s spoke. “How dare you call this innocent!” The woman stood, the judgement clear on her face. “I’ve been right all along. You think I haven’t been hearing the stories of your whoring? You’ve dishonored this family again and again. For years, I have tried to get my husband to do something, but he’s always protected you, and I could never understand why.”

“I sent that picture to Eddie during the war.”

“Lying whore!”

Tamsyn stared at the picture. The image was exactly as she remembered. She still had the wedding dress. Her face had matured, and she did her hair in a different style these days, but it was her. “How did you get this?”

Mrs. McClary said, “I know you worked a lot of late nights with my husband. I’ve always known you were rotten to the core but I figured there were lines a whore like you wouldn’t cross.”

“What are you talking about?”

Mrs. McClary, “You slept with my husband.”

The comment took a moment to process in Tamsyn’s brain and when it did, she laughed out loud.

“Hahahahahaha…” The response caused Mrs. McClary’s face to grow apoplectic. “Are you crazy!” Tamsyn shouted, “We never… He’d never… Mr. McClary is a father to me.”

Mrs. McClary said, “You never had a father, you no-good, simple-minded, tramp. Your Mom was a two-bit whore who got knocked up by a criminal. And you’ve turned out worse than either of them.”

Tamsyn said, “My father?”

Mrs. McClary’s face twisted itself into a snarl. “Did you ever wonder why your mother never told your father’s name? He got pregnant while working in a whorehouse. She didn’t know the man’s name.”

“That’s not true. My Momma… she insisted I always be a good girl … she insisted I …”

Mrs. McClary had held this nugget for years, waiting for the right moment to spring it. “I had investigators check out all the girls Eddie dated.
When I told him the truth of your birth, it steeled his resolve to date you.”

“That’s a lie.”

“Ask him. I dare you.” Mrs. McClary gave an arrogant grin.

Tamsyn said, “I’ve had investigators look for my father. They didn’t find anything about my mother’s past.”

“I wonder why?” Mrs. McClaryI looked more smug if it were possible. “I did what any mother would do in my situation. I had the authorities gather all the records of your mother’s arrests and hid them away. We couldn’t have any embarrassment coming back on the family through the association. It was a bless for all she died from the Spanish Flu.”

Tamsyn felt the rage build. “You need to leave.”

“I did it to protect my son. I’ve told him a thousand times to leave you but it’s like you’ve woven a spell over him.”

“Fuck you.”

Mrs. McClary didn’t say a word as the self-satisfied smile sat on her face.

“Gunther!” Tamsyn’s rage quaked her bones. “Escort Mrs. McClary to her car. She is leaving.”

Gunther opened the door and looked at both women.

Mrs. McClary picked up the photo and held it in the air. “We’re not finished with this discussion. Not by a long shot. You’re finished in this town.”

Tamsyn’s Raceabout screamed down the hill going well over sixty by the time she reached the bottom. Pre-war cars were no longer in fashion, but it reminded her of simpler times. Thankfully the car hadn’t lost a bit of speed.

She passed Mrs. McClary well before she reached the bottom of the hill, but didn’t give her the satisfaction of looking. Her car sped across town, passing the McClary factory just before stopping in front of their recently built mansion.

Hazel asked, “Hello Miss Tamsyn. Is the master expecting you?”

“I need to see him.”

“It’s ok, Hazel. Mr. McClary called from the top of the stairs. Tamsyn could see he had been drinking. “Let’s talk in my study.”

Tamsyn did her best not to scream. Mr. McClary sat down in a big chair near the fireplace. The table next to the chair held an ashtray with a half smoked cigar, a half-full decanter of brandy, and an empty glass.

“Can I get you something to drink?”

“Tamsyn ignored him, “Do you know why I’m here.”

Mr. McClary nodded, “Yeah.”

“Do you know your wife visited me?”

Mr. McClary nodded, “Yeah.”

“She had a picture. A very private picture of me. Do you know where she got it?”

Mr. McClary nodded. “Yeah.” He refilled his glass and took a long sip. “The army sent me all of Eddie’s belongings when I paid to get him out of detention.” He reached into his breast pocket and pulled out a stack of carefully bound envelopes.

“My letters?”

Mr. McClary looked down as he laid them on the table. Tamsyn picked up the stack and saw they’d all been opened. Every envelope looked well worn.

“The army opened them?”

“No.” Mr. McClary shook his head.

Tamsyn saw the tears building in Mr. McClary’s eyes. She’d never seen the man cry.

“Eddie chose well when he picked you. We were a good team, you and I. I’d come to rely on you more than I should. My feelings they got… too much. When Eddie came back my feelings started to grow. I knew I had to get away from you.” Mr. McClary took another drink. “I hoped the picture would be enough.”

Tamsyn lay back in her chair. This man … he’d been her mentor. She’d learned so much from him but now … across the table … she saw a broken man. A small man.

“We didn’t do anything wrong.” Tamsyn choked out the words.

“My wife is demanding a divorce.”

“A divorce?” Tamsyn laughed, “Your lawyers would crush her in court.”

“She doesn’t want a divorce from me.” Mr. McClary said, “She wants Eddie to divorce you.”

“No…” Tamsyn laughed then looked to Mr. McClary’s face, “Seriously?”

Mr. McClary nodded, “I wish I were kidding.”

Tamsyn said, “You know your wife belongs in a sanitarium. She is not well. You know it’s true.”

“Of course I know.” Mr. McClary sighed, “But she’s my wife, and I made a vow.”

Tamsyn said, “It’s a simple picture. If you’ve read my letters, you know your son requested it. I did nothing wrong. I’m not ashamed of what I did.”

“She’s threatening to take it to the church and she’s got your Mom’s records. You know what they’ll say if they see it.” Mr. McClary said, “Those righteous bastards have been waiting for an excuse to take you down and you know what happens in a town like this when anger gets stoked. Half the town thinks I stole their businesses during the war. And every time they see Eddie, it reminds them of family members who didn’t come home. Then, there’s the parties...”

“I’m doing them for Eddie.”

Mr. McClary pounded his fist on the table causing the cigar to fly into the air and fall on the ground. “I know why you’re having the parties.”

“You can’t do this.”

“I don’t have a choice. The whole town is looking for an excuse to take the family down, Tamsyn. Don’t you understand?”

“Get your wife to back off? She’s the problem.”

“She is who she is. I make no apologies for her. I think you understand better than most that a successful marriage needs compromise.” Mr. McClary took a deep breath. “I promise. I’ll set you up somewhere nice. You’ll never have to work a day in your life.”

“I want to work!”

Mr. McClary continued, “You’re still young, you’re very pretty, and you don’t have kids. Another man will come along. Someone more worthy of you than my son.”

“Eddie is the best man I’ve ever known!”

“And yet you seek the comfort of other men’s beds.”

“We have an arrangement.”

“Everyone in town knows about your arrangement, Tamsyn. Everyone in town thinks you’ve made him your cuckold.” Mr. McClary lit his cigar and gave it a few vigorous puffs. “Do you make him watch too?”

“That’s not fair.” Tamsyn paused. “It’s not like that. You know the real issue better than anyone.”

“I’ve made my decision, Tamysn.” Mr. McClary sat back in his chair. “My lawyers will draw something up by the end of this week. It will be fair. I promise.”

Tamsyn had watched this man negotiate a thousand contracts. She’s seen the steel in his eyes when he’d made up his mind. She picked up her letters. “These are mine. I’m taking them with me.”

“Of course.”

“Go to hell … boss.”

Tamsyn ran up the stairs and into her room, slamming the door behind her. The door opened a few seconds later.

“You ran off. What’s wrong?” Eddie wore one of his finest cloaks.

Tamsyn shook her head. “It’s nothing.” She needed time. Time to think, to figure things out.

Eddie said, “It’s not nothing. Mother comes to the house then rushes off screaming with you chasing. Now you return, and I find you crying on your bed.”

“I don’t want to talk about it.”

Eddie said, “I’m talking to someone about it. Do you want Mom to be the first to tell the story?”

Tamsyn sighed, “She wants us to get a divorce.”

Eddie laughed. “Ha!’

“Father is supporting her. He’s insisting.’

“What?” Eddie’s face turned grim.

Tamsyn turned to face her husband. “He said the lawyers will have the paperwork ready by the end of the week.”

Eddie said, “That’s crazy. I’ll go to talk to him. I’m sure it’s all a big misunderstanding.”

“Don’t.” Her husband’s brow showed the building strain of the argument.

“That can’t happen.” Eddie pulled Tamsyn close. “Our marriage is everything to me. You are my rock. I don’t know what I’d do if you aren’t around.”

“I know but your mother will make life hell if we don’t give in.” Tamsyn shuddered at memories of their argument. She’d tried her best. She’d spent the last four years completely devoted to Eddie but these people had never taken her in. Eddie’s Dad saw her as a trophy to be won. Eddie’s Mom saw her as a threat. “Your Mom is evil, Eddie. You can’t fight evil.”

Eddie’s arms wrapped around Tamsyn’s body, his hands coming to rest on her breasts. She felt herself slump into his grasp, basking in the warmth.

Eddie said, "The others don’t understand our relationship. They don’t understand me. The day I met you was the luckiest of my life. You can’t leave. I won’t survive."

“I know.”

“Ma’am?”

Tamsyn sat in bed smoking a cigarette. “Yes, Gunther?”

“You know how I can sometimes hear the conversations between yourself and Master McClary?.”

“You mean how you like to eavesdrop?”

Gunther shrugged, “If I may be so bold, I think I have a solution to your problem.”

Tamsyn gave Gunther a look. Only an idiot didn’t know the servants weren’t listening in on their conversations. Seen and not heard. Most were smart enough not to bring it up.

“What is it now?”

Gunther said, “I was doing some research.”

Tamsyn said, “You did research in the library without telling me?”

“Yes, ma’am. Sorry, ma’am.”

Tamsyn’s eyes fell to the man’s crotch. Gunther had gotten too comfortable and had started taking too many liberties. Then again, the man had an amazing cock.

“What did you find?”

“I think I have a solution to your mother-in-law problem.”

“Oh?” Tamsyn said.

Gunther’s smile grew bigger. “Would you like to see?”

The contractors didn’t find the library until the end of construction. Not sure what to do with the contents, they’d locked it up for another year until Gunther asked if he could organize the place.

Most of the book looked quite old. Most of them appeared to be quite valuable. The first time they’d entered the room, books had been strewn from one end of the room as if the former occupant had left in a hurry.

They later learned the story of the rector, penned in his own maniac writings. It didn’t take long to figure out most of the books in the room were histories of demons and spirits from long lost civilizations. Some made for good reading, but most were unreadable, written in languages few could understand.

Their discovery of the Grand Grimoire changed everything.

At first, they found the words inside completely undecipherable. The first chapters were written in a foreign language they later determined to be Old English. The purchase of an Old English dictionary helped some with their efforts,but progress was slow.. At first, Tamsyn scoffed at the idea the thing might be a spellbook. The first spell in the book was a blessing for newborn babies. The next rid the land of pestilence, and the one after called on the sky to fill the rivers. Interesting but completely useless for their needs.

Tamsyn didn’t think much of the spell named ‘obscura’ the first time she read it. It was Gunther who came up with the idea. The ingredients were easy to gather. The previous occupant had conveniently left behind a cauldron and the spell’s catalyst. They cast it on Eddie any time he wanted to dress up, and no one in the room recognized him as long as he was out of their presence by midnight.

After the first spell, Tamsyn couldn’t stop. The book had many hidden secrets and she wanted to know more. These days she and Gunther spent most of their afternoons locked behind the closed doors of the library, piecing together clues between lovemaking sessions.

Tamsyn entered the library. “What did you find?”

Gunther opened the Grand Grimoire to a page near the back of the book. Sharp lines and angles covered the page. “I translated this page. It deals with evil.”

Tamsyn said, “What do you mean?”

Gunther said, “You said it yourself. Mrs. McClary is evil. We need to take care of her.”

Tamsyn looked around the room and then out into the hall. She shut the door and locked it just to be sure. She whispered, “Will it hurt her?”

Gunther spoke without emotion, “Do you care?”

“I…” Tamsyn looked at the page. The scribbles didn’t look like any language she’d ever seen. “How did you decipher it?”

Gunther said, “It’s written in an old Elamite script.” He held up a book of translation. “It took me a month to decode.”

Tamsyn stared at the page filled in an ancient script. She hated her mother-in-law, but Gunther’s insinuation was clear. “Have you tested it?”

Gunther shook his head. “This isn’t the type of spell you test.” His stare grew intense, “I gathered the ingredients. I’ve written down the steps. We try or we don’t. It’s your call.”

Tamsyn looked over the translation written in Gunther’s block script, “How long have you been preparing this spell?” The ingredients wasn’t something a person could put together in an afternoon.

“A while.” As usual, Gunther’s face betrayed no emotion.

“Will they be able to trace it to us?”

Gunther shook his head, “It’s magic. She’ll be at her house. You’ll be here. I don’t know how you could be implicated.” He added, “You know if we don’t act, this time next week you’ll be out of this house. I know what I’d do if I were in your shoes.”

Tamsyn nodded. In a week, she’d be on a train away from everything and everyone she’d ever loved. She looked to the heavens, and crossed herself as she fell to her knees. “Please God, tell me what to do. Give me a sign.”

A smile grew on the large man's face. Tamsyn couldn’t remember if she’d ever seen him smile. Gunther asked, “Did you get an answer?”

“No.”

“That’s been my experience too. I lost my faith a long time ago.” Gunther looked up at the ceiling, “I’ve heard the faithful say God helps those who help themselves.”

Tamsyn took a deep breath. “I suppose.” She doubted God would listen to her prayers. It’d been years since she’d been to church. “What do
I need to do?”

Gunther pulled a knife from his pocket. “The spell isn’t so tough. For the first part you need to take off your clothes.”

Tamsyn looked over the translation. “I don’t see that here. Are you trying to trick me into taking off my clothes?”

“Like I’d need to trick you.” Gunther tapped a finger to his temple. “I haven’t written everything down. Parts of the spell are up here.”

The man had already taken off his own shirt. Tamsyn watched him take off his pants and smiled when she saw his growing cock. The thing looked obscene but felt so good. Feeling her gathering heat, she took off her top then pulled down her bloomers until they hit the floor.

“Good.” Gunther grabbed Tamsyn’s right hand, then flashed a blade across her palm. A bright crimson stain appeared on her right hand.

“What the hell…” Tamsyn grabbed her hand.

Gunther didn’t react, “Give me your other hand.”

“No.”

“Do you want to do this spell or not?”

Blood from Tamsyn’s right hand dripped on the floor as she offered her left. Gunther didn’t hesitate as he cut a similar slash across her palm.

“Now do me.” He held out his knife.

“You want me to cut you?”

Gunther nodded, “Twice across the palm. The knife is very sharp. Let it do the work.”

Tamsyn did as instructed. One slash and then another. Their blood dripped into a pool on the floor.

“Take my hand.”

Gunther held both hands in front of his body with palms turned up. Tamsyn put hers on top allowing the blood to mingle. Gunther took a firm grip, power of the man’s grasp causing a slight yelp from Tamsyn’s lips.

“That’s hurts.”

Gunther ignored her. “Now we say the incantation. Lay back on the floor and repeat my words.”

Gunther pressed Tamsyn to the floor, his hardness clear of the next move. “The spell requires we have sex?”

“Don’t pretend like you won’t enjoy it.” Gunther gave a self-assured stare while positioning to impale her. “The spell comes from the era of human sacrifices and orgies.”

Tamsyn asked, “This better not be some weird kink of yours.”

“You can leave at any time.” Gunther rubbed his entire length across her slit.

Tamsyn’s shivered in delight, “Oh god …”

“Is god speaking to you now?”

"Shut up." Tamsyn’s knees went weak as Gunther pressed his tip forward. “AIIIEEEEEE…”

“What was that?” Gunther gave her an infuriating grin. “Do you like that?”

Tamsyn snapped, “Put it in me.” This man had taken too liberties due to their relationship. But this cock…

Gunther shook his head. “Not yet.” He intertwined his fingers with Tamsyn’s. “Tell me you love me.”

Tamsyn sighed, “I love you.”

Gunther said, “Tell me you want your mother-in-law dead.”

Tamsyn loins throbbed as Gunther pressed a little further. “I want that bitch dead.”

Gunther said, “Tell me you’ll do anything to please me.”

Tamsyn answered, “I’ll do anything to please you.”

Gunther said, “Call me master.”

Tamsyn said, “Master?”

Gunther repeated, “You need to beg. You've got to beg for the spell to work.”

Tamsyn wanted to say no but desire replaced rational thought., “Please master. I need you inside me.”

Gunther grinned, “Will you serve me?” He pushed a little further.

Tamsyn screamed, “I’ll serve you Gunther, please … please… please.”

“At the cost of your soul?”

Tamsyn wasn't listening to the words. Her thoughts focused on one thing as Gunther penetrated. “Yes… Oh god! … Yes!!! … YES!!!”

Gunther pressed forward with his entire length but Tamsyn didn’t feel it. She passed out before the end of his first thrust.

Gunther sat at the desk reading the book.

Tamsyn asked, “Did it work?”

“How do you feel?”

Tamsyn looked at her hands. The cuts on her palms had disappeared. “I feel … different.”

Gunther said, “It takes time to adjust.”

Tamsyn said, “What do you mean?”

Gunther turned the Grand Grimoire around, “Read this page.”

Tamsyn looked at the page. At the top she saw the words, ‘Finger of death’. Below it were a list of instructions.

Gunther said, “It is no small thing to kill a person. Eddie’s nightly screams are proof of that.”

Tamsyn read line after line of text “How am I able to understand this? It was gibberish five minutes ago.”

Gunther smiled, “I was like you once upon a time. A simple man with a simple mission to save souls. I built a place of god on a tall hill where people could come and study the gospels. I intended it to become a school of divinity. I gathered books of study hoping to protect people from demons.”

Tamsyn watched as Gunther’s skin turned dark, and his body began to grow. Red eyes pierced the veil of haze.

Tamsyn fell on the floor, “What are you?”

“I built this house.”

“You’re the rector?”

Gunther nodded, “Words cannot express the pain I endured the day of my transformation. I was studying an ancient text and read the wrong passage. The demon lord who emerged from the portal laughed at me when I begged for my life, I happily gave him my soul to make him go away. I had no idea I’d bound myself to him.”

“It took days for my body to adjust. By the time I regained my senses, I found myself in a whorehouse, weak and exhausted. When I returned to my church my skin burst into flame.”

“So I paid a man to plaster up the library then killed him to keep it secret. The nice thing about becoming a demon is it teaches you about patience. I knew someone would buy the place eventually. When you stripped the place of all religious artifacts, I knew I might be able to regain my house as a base of operations. You and your husband were easy to corrupt. A push here and a tug there. It’s amazing the things people will give away when you give them everything they they want.”

Tamsyn couldn’t stand so she tried to scramble across the floor.

“Stop.”

Tamsyn found she couldn’t move. She tried to scream, but no sound came out.

“You are in my service now, Tamysn. I control you and you will do as I say.”

---

---

It shouldn’t be a big deal. All Billy's friends have visited the widow's house and each seemed to come away better for the experience. Visiting her has been a rite of passage for boys in town for as long as anyone can remember.

Billy knows he should want this. The whispers about him have been growing and even his friends are starting to ask questions. Tonight is the night if he's going to end the rumors. Should it matter if it’s Halloween and there’s a full moon in the sky?

---

Chapter 17

Tamsyn pointed, “This part of the house was the church’s bell tower.” She pointed to the brass telescope near one of the windows. “My husband spent a fortune to take out the roof and enclose the entirety with glass. He loved sleeping under the stars. It reminded him of his time in the service.” An unmade mattress lay on the floor. It told of continued use.

Billy pointed at the telescope. “Can I take a look?”

“Of course.”

The telescope could see everything for miles. Billy saw the school. The town hall. The town’s shopping center. He shifted the telescope to the nearby woods. Four figures sat around a small campfire with beer bottles scattered nearby.

“I see my friends.”

“You’re supposed to be looking at the stars, not play peeping tom.” Tamsyn pointed up, “See that bright light? If you focus the telescope on it you'll see Venus, the second brightest object in the night’s sky. It’s harder to see when the moon is full but ancient astronomers named her the 'morning star'.”

Billy wasn’t listening to Tamsyn’s astronomy lesson, preferring to move the telescope to more familiar sights. “You can see every house in town. I can see my house. And there’s Tyler's.”

Tamsyn shook her head, “My husband used the telescope to keep an eye on his factory.”

Billy asked, “What factory?”

“It’s been closed for a long time. The jobs left years ago, and they tore down the building. If you look hard you can see the road we used to visit the town.”

Billy nodded, “I think we followed it to come here.”

Tamsyn poured two cups of tea and placed both on a small table next to the couch.

“I want to ask you a question, and I want you to think hard before giving me an answer.”

Billy said, “I’ll do my best.”

Tamsyn asked, “Why did you wait so long to visit? Your friends came to my doorstep the first weekend they were eligible.”

Billy shrugged. “I don’t know.”

“Are you sure you don’t know, or is fear talking?” Tamsyn passed Billy a cup of tea.

Billy shook his head. “I don’t know.”

“What’s the problem?”

“I don’t know.”

“You keep repeating yourself.” She placed her hand on Billy’s arm. “I think you know the answer. You don’t want to admit it.”

Billy stared at Tamsyn. This woman was beautiful, there was no denying it. But even after sleeping with her, his feelings for her were different than other guys.

He took a deep breath. “People think I’m gay.”

Tamsyn asked, “Are you?”

“I don’t know.” Billy closed his eyes. “I go to church every Sunday and pray to be like everyone else but I wake up Monday morning and the feelings remain.” Billy bowed his head. “I don’t want to feel like this anymore.” He pointed at his outfit. “I mean .. look at me. I’m wearing a dress and it makes me happier than I can explain. That isn’t normal.”

“It was for my husband.”

Billy shook his head. “I don’t know what to do.”

Tamsyn placed her hand on Billy’s “I can help you. I can give you what you want but you need to ask me for it. You need to admit your true feelings.” Tamsyn pulled down her shirt to reveal her naked chest.

“Touch me.”

Billy shouted, “Weren’t you listening? I don’t think about girls like that.”

“So why did you come to my house?”

“I don’t know.”

“I think you do.” Tamsyn took hold of Billy’s wrists and moved his hands until both rested on her breasts. Billy felt a shock as soon as his hand touched her skin and he pulled away. Tamsyn smiled, “The truth is I have something you need. Something you desire deep in your soul.”
Tamsyn’s cloak fell to the ground. She stood naked in the moonlight.

Billy couldn’t take his eyes off her body. “You’re very beautiful.”

“Yes, I am." Tamsyn said without of hint of shame. "I'm sure if a modeling agency saw me, I could get signed to a contract but I've found my beauty to be both blessing and curse.” She touched Billy’s waist, moving her hand lower until it came to rest between Billy’s legs, “Why hasn’t my beauty gotten you hard? Do you have a problem?”

"I told you. I’m a freak.”

“No you’re not.” Tamsyn moved her hand over the material of the wedding dress, until her hands came to rest on Billy’s chest. “This dress was made especially for me. I never thought much about my chest as a child until … poof …one day I had these things sticking out. All the boys treated me differently after that.”

“I bet.” Billy moved his hand to own chest and felt the emptiness inside.

“Would you like to know how it feels?”

“What do you mean?”

Tamsyn put her hands on top of Billy’s and began moving them in a circular pattern. Arcs of light shot through Billy’s hands and into his chest.

“That tickles.”

Tamsyn didn’t speak as she moved their hands faster. Round and round the circle they went as the area began to hurt.

“What are you doing?”

“Shhh..”

A sudden heft in his skin took Billy by surprise. “Is that…”

“Shhh...”

Billy felt himself grow excited and taking over and moved his hands on their own, each rotation filling the fabric a bit more.

“This is impossible.”

Tears of joy sprang from Billy’s lids when he saw he had cleavage. Two white bosoms strained the material underneath and the tingling grew as Billy hands began to caress himself.

Tamsyn smiled. “Are you about finished?”

“Aren't I allowed to touch them?"

“It’s your body.”

Billy reached inside the dress and found warmth where moments before lay an expanse of empty cloth. He pulled and he tugged but his hands weren't able to get inside. The two large flesh mounds made him a prisoner inside the dress.

Billy asked, “You wouldn’t happen to have a knife?”

Tamsyn held out her hand with a handle pointed out, “This knife?” The knife looked old and very sharp.

Billy grabbed it, cutting a line straight in the cloth until a cold sting of night’s air told he'd gone far enough.

Tamsyn said, “Let me help.”

She lifted the dress, pulling it off Billy’s shoulders, and let it fall to his waist. Billy shook himself causing the fleshy mass to wiggle and move like the girls at school. A touch on his nipple caused an immediate reaction, the mix of warmth and cold that shot a pleasant feeling throughout his entire body.

“I have breasts!”

“You do.”

“How is this possible?”

“I told you Billy. I can give you what you want. I have power beyond your understanding.”

Billy asked, “What kind of power?”

Tamsyn’s eyes grew intense and her voice burst into an arcane chant. “Uk-sal-mak!”

The church-steeple-turned-solarium resembled a lighthouse for a moment as the candles in the room began to glow. Eight windows surrounded the room and in each window sat eight jars. Sixty-four glass containers surrounded the pair, and all of them burned with a magical glow with the exception of one.

Billy fell back, “What was that?”

"Come on, Billy." Tamsyn imitated a witch’s cackle, “I’m sure you’ve heard the stories the children tell about me. They say I bake the meat of little children into my pies and grind their bones for my bread.”

“Are you saying…” Billy wanted to run but his feet wouldn’t move. Fear filled him to the core as Tamsyn bowed her head. A second later the light in the room returned to normal.

“Relax, Billy.” Tamsyn smiled as her eyes grew dark. “I’m only a witch.” She gave a wicked sort of laugh.

The blood chilled in Billy’s veins. “You’re only a what????”

“You know … a witch … a sorceress … an enchanter … a siren. My kind has gone by many names over the years.”

Billy pushed Tamsyn away. “Let me go.”

“You can go if you’d like.” Tamsyn pointed at the door. “I’m not holding you captive.”

Billy jumped to his feet, the bounce on his chest a reminder of the nakedness above his waist.

“Your friends are a testament to how I treat my guests. Can you name one mistreatment I’ve given since your arrival?” Tamsyn said.

Billy tried to keep from freaking out, but failed miserably. "I need to go. I'm sure Gunther is finished with my pants.”

“Of course.” Tamsyn nodded, “But aren’t you forgetting something?”

“Like what?”

She pointed at Billy’s chest. “Won’t your friends have a lot of questions if you stroll down the hill with those bouncing on every step?”

Billy felt himself, the simple squeeze causing him to blush. “Undo the spell.”

“It doesn’t work like that.”

“I insist you reverse it.” Billy insisted.

“I can’t.”

“You tricked me.”

“Me? Trick you?” Tamsyn’s mouth formed into a cute little pout. “A minute ago you were singing my praises for giving you breasts. Now you’re calling me a trickster. Which is it, Billy?”

“Screw you.”

Tamsyn sighed, “Today's youth are so ill mannered.” She shook her head. “The truth is the spell I cast ends at the last stroke of midnight. At that point your body will return to its former state.”

“My former state?” Billy touched his chest. “You mean these aren’t permanent?”

Tamsyn laughed. “You need to make up your mind, Billy. Are you mad because I gave you breasts or mad at me because you don’t get to keep them? You're changing your mind so often it’s making my head spin.”

“I don’t…” Billy looked down. It didn't seem possible. “I don’t ... know.”

Tamsyn poured another cup of tea. “Have a seat on the couch. Let's talk a bit.” She handed Billy the cup. “Drink this. It will settle your nerves.”

Billy stared at the liquid inside and then looked at Tamsyn.

“For god’s sake Billy, drink it. If my intent was to poison you, I could have done so many times tonight.”

Billy sniffed at the brownish-orange liquid. “It smells gross.”

Tamsyn nodded. “It's not great. Bitterroot tea is an acquired taste.”

Billy took one sip and then another. He continued taking sips until the cup was empty.

Tamsyn asked, “Do you feel better?”

“Not really.”

Tamsyn looked to the sky. “We have some time before you return to normal. Can we talk like two adults? I’m sure you have questions.”

Billy nodded.

Chapter 18

November, 1921

Tamsyn gathered every blanket on her bed but found herself shivering.

Gunther growled from the other side of the room. “I’ve searched many years to find someone worthy enough to be my mate. You should feel honored we are bound.”

Tamsyn shook her head. “Your mate? I can’t be your mate. I’m married.”

Gunther laughed, “The bond between us is not about love or marriage. Those without a soul do not need love but I do need a partner.”

Tamsyn said, “I’ll never work with you.”

“Yes, Tamsyn, you will. But for now, the only thing I need from you is to get out of bed.” Gunther’s face appeared almost kind in the unlit room, as his lips curled into an evil smile. “Trust me, it’s for your own good.” When Tamsyn didn’t move, Gunther’s smile turned wicked. “I said get out of bed, Tamsyn.”

Tamsyn sat up against her will. “I don’t trust you.”

Gunther said, “I’d rather not force you to obey me. It’s easier for both of us if we work together.”

“I’ll never work for you…”

Gunther opened the closet door, “You need to get dressed. They’ll be calling soon.”

Tamsyn tried to stand but collapsed on the floor, not able to stop her shaking. “Leave me alone.”

“Of course, ma’am.” Gunther said, mocking her in a steward’s voice. He lifted Tamsyn to her feet using one arm. “I’ve run you a bath and picked out an outfit. It won’t be long until they find Mrs. McClary. You need to be ready.”

“Oh god.” Tamsyn had forgotten about her mother-in-law. “Is she?”

“I’m a man of my word. A life for a life.” Tamsyn ran from the room holding the outfit Gunther had offered.

‘This is a bad dream. It’s a bad dream. It has to be a bad dream.’

The water from the bathtub thawed her limbs, allowing Tamsyn to feel almost normal for a moment. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, falling into a deep sleep…

She had now idea how long she laid there when Gunther’s voice filled her mind. “Get out of the bathtub. You need to leave this house now or I promise, you will regret it.”

Tamsyn jumped from the tub on Gunther’s command, and began to dry off.

The cold got worse the further Tamsyn drove. A half dozen police cars were at the McClary house when she arrived. Hazel stood in the driveway, the tears in her eyes plain as Tamsyn applied the brake.

Hazel asked, “Have you heard the news?”

Tamsyn shook her head, repeating her mantra. hoping against hope. It’s a bad dream. It’s a bad dream. It’s a bad dream.

Hazel lowered her voice. “They found Mrs. McClary’s car at the bottom of Gasper Valley.”

Tamsyn tried to look surprised but the words hit like a death sentence. “Is she ok?”

Hazel's said everything. “The mister went to the crash site but the cops wouldn’t let him see the body. He’s been locked in his study for the last half-hour, and won’t come out. The police are worried. He’s got a gun in there.”

“Shit.” Tamsyn ran into the house to finding a half dozen cops on the staircase outside Mr. McClary’s study.

The captain spoke. “Hello Miss Tamsyn. He’s refusing all visitors.”

“He’ll open the door for me.”

Tamsyn’s chill disappeared as she stared at the cops. All of them looked fit. All of them looked virile. They all stared back, as the hunger built.

Tamsyn ran past them, and past the captain, pounding her hand on the study door. “Dad, open up. I’m worried about you.”

She got no response. Tamsyn knocked again, “Dad? It’s Tamsyn. It’s your daughter.”

A second later the solenoid in the door sounded and Tamsyn opened the door.

She felt the police rush forward behind her. They were about to enter as Tamsyn shouted. “No!”

Every man stopped at where he stood.

The captain was the only one to speak, “Yes, Miss Tamsyn?”

“I need to talk to him. Alone.”

“Are you sure?”

Tamsyn nodded. “Yes.”

A bouquet of two-dozen long stemmed roses lay on the desk. Behind them sat the image of a broken man.

“She called me.” Mr. McClary said, with tears in his eyes, “She invited me to dinner. We were going to meet at our favorite restaurant. She sounded so happy.”

They both knew why Mrs. McClary was happy. She finally broke up her son’s marriage. Or so she’d thought. “I’m sure she was happy.”

“They’re saying it was faulty brakes but that doesn’t make sense. The driver had them checked last month.”

“The driver was in the car?”

"Of course." Mr. McClary nodded. “He didn’t make it either.”

Tamsyn closed her eyes. Gunther had lied. She'd gotten a bargain … two lives for one. “I’m so sorry.”

"I know." Mr. McClary stood and stared at Tamsyn, the intensity of his gaze growing. “I’m glad you came.”

“Me too.” Tamsyn said, walking around the desk to give her Dad a hug.

She longed to be touched. The two met in a tight embrace, soon the heat from Mr. McClary’s body began flowing through the fabric of his shirt.

They shared a platonic embrace at first, turning more passionate as Tamsyn grew hotter. Mr. McClary’s hands pulled on her chest, and the sound of ripping fabric soon followed.

“I’ve wanted you for so long. With my wife gone, we can…”

A gnawing hunger tore at Tamsyn's innards. “What about your son?”

“I think we both know I can give you things my son never could.” Mr. McClary loosened his belt and unzipped his pants. The pair stumbled across the room, each kiss growing more frantic.

Tamsyn clung to the man who’d taught her so much. She’d noticed his stares over the years but paid them little mind. Every guy in the office stared at her. Mr. McClary did it the least. They'd maintained a professional relationship despite the innocent flirting. All thoughts of innocent disappeared as Tamsyn fell on the couch, and Mr. McClary climbed on top. A river of energy flowed from top to bottom.

It didn't take long for the ripples of pleasure to start. The changes to Tamsyn's body started soon after.

Mr. McClary tried to pull away. “What’s happening to you?"

The place which once contained Tamysn’s soul took control with it’s need to be filled. Desire ripped through her body, and Mr. McClary soon found himself on the bottom, pinned to the couch under his former employee’s iron grip. "Please…Tamsyn … Noooo…"

Tamsyn tore through Mr. McClary's shirt with one clawed hand, her other doing the same to his pants. She smiled a toothy grin when her hand found the object of its search. “My ... my ... you ARE ready to go … boss.”

As Tamsyn moved into position, she saw Mr. McClary had bowed his head. In a different mindset, Tamysn might have recognized the words of the Lord’s Prayer. In her current state, only thought remained.

Mr. McClary faced his attacker and steeled his reserves. He spoke a final plea. "My wife was right. You are a devil…" but Tamsyn wasn't listening. Soon the man’s eyes rolled back into his head and his words trailed off.

Some part of Tamsyn's brain screamed its objection, as the hunger took over. Surges of energy caused wings to sprouted from her back and a long tail which whipped from side to side.

Tamsyn’s claws pulled the man close, her wings wrapping them both in a cocoon of leathery flesh. Images of Mr. McClary’s life flashed before Tamsyn’s eyes -- his hopes, his dreams, and his disappointments. She’d felt herself drawn to him for years and now she had no doubt. He’d loved her too.

Tamsyn opened her eyes.

“You’ve done well.” She saw Gunther standing on the other side of the room.

“What happened?”

“You were sleeping when I got here.” He pointed towards the desk. Mr. McClary sat in his chair, his gray pall stating the obvious. On the desk lay the man's service revolver. “I found him laying next to you.”

Terror filled Tamsyn as she stared at her father-in-law's corpse. “I didn’t mean to do it…”

Gunther said, “Of course, my pet. You should go home and get some rest.”

Tamsyn stood, the remnants of her clothing hanging in tatters off her body but she felt no cold. She touched her belly and found the source of the warmth inside. Flashes of Mr. McClary’s life played out in her mind.

Gunther said, “I’ll clean up here.”

Tamsyn ran from the room in terror, stopping as soon as she reached the exit. A dozen cops lay on the stairs where they fell, and a feeling of horror grew in Tamsyn’s gut.

“Don't worry, they’re sleeping. Killing them would lead to too many questions.” Gunther spoke in the dispassionate voice of a person who didn't care either way. “They won’t remember your visit.”

Tamsyn carefully stepped over each police officer as she made her way down the steps. At the house's entrance, she found Hazel in the same state as the cops. She ran to her car when she heard the gunshot.

Mr. McClary’s final memories screamed in Tamsyn’s head as she started her car.

“I’ve wanted you for so long…”
“I can give you things my son never could.”
“What’s happening to you, Tamsyn?"
"Please…Tamsyn … Noooo…"
“Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name…”
“You are a devil…”

A devil. She never thought a thing possible but the memories of sharp claws, leather wings, and a pointy tail were seared into her brain.
Tamsyn shouted at the sky as she sped into the night. “I’m a fucking demon.”

From a young age, everyone seemed to know she was no good. As the daughter of a whore and a nameless father, did she ever have a chance?

Her car approached seventy miles per hour as it sped up the hill and around the tight corners. Tamsyn had never dared to drive the car this fast but the world moved different for her now. Only when Tamsyn reached the house did she realize she hadn’t turned on the lights.

Chapter 20

Tamsyn stared at Billy, “I need to show you something and I don’t want you to freak out.”

Billy replied, “Do I have a choice?”

Tamsyn didn’t respond as she moved her hands over her belly. Her stomach glowed, getting brighter with every moment until a tiny pinprick of a wisp flew into the air. Tamsyn snatched it with both hands, holding it close to her breast like a mother might a child.

“Do you recognize this?”

Billy said, “It's some kind of witch's magic, I guess.”

“It’s your essence, Billy. More specifically, it’s your virginal essence.” Tamsyn held the light in her hand as she walked across the room to the remaining empty jar. Seconds later, Billy watched as his essence flew into the waiting container.

“That’s my virginity?”

Tamsyn pointed around the room. “This room is filled with the essence of virgins. She pointed to a jar on the wall, “That’s your friend Symon.”

She pointed to another. “That one is Quinton’s. The essences tell me everything I want to know about a person. They tell me their darkest dreams and all of their hidden secrets.”

“What does mine say?”

Tamsyn smiled. “What do you think it says?”

Billy stood, looking at the lights surrounding the room. "These are from the guys who come to this place? You take this from them?"

"I think it is safe to say these were freely given. After all, it isn't easy to get to my house."

Billy walked the perimeter until he came to the one Tamsyn had placed. ”This is mine?”

Tamsyn nodded.

Billy stared at his jar, watching the light flicker and dance. It surprised him the flame didn’t look different than the others. If Tamsyn was telling the truth, she’d known about his gender for hours.

Tamsyn whispered in Billy’s ear, her mouth so close it tickled. "I can help you become a woman. I can make those things on your chest permanent. I can do everything you’ve always wanted and more. But I need you to trust me."

Billy's heart raced still feeling Tamsyn’s warm breath. He couldn't deny the sudden warmth in his loins. This wasn't what he'd expected. He’d come to this place hoping Tamsyn might make him a man. Instead, she was offering to do the opposite. It was on offer he couldn't refuse.

“What do I need to do?”

“Tamsyn offered a champagne glass. “You’ll need this.”

“I don’t drink.”

“Take the glass, Billy.”

Billy accepted the glass and held it in front of his body. “Now what?”

Tamsyn leaned forward and pinched Billy’s nipple.

“Ouch. What was that for?”

“Look at your nipple.” A small drop of semi-transparent liquid dripped from Billy’s breast.

“What the hell? When did these things start producing milk?”

“You do understand why women have breasts, don't you?” Tamsyn said.

“I this this only happened to pregnant girls…”

“That’s normally true.” Tamsyn smiled. “The tea you drank earlier was a combination of herbs our ancestors used to help with lactation.”
A drop fell from Billy’s nipple and ran down his belly. “What the hell, Tamsyn?”

“I don’t need much milk for the spell but those things look like they’re about to explode. You should empty them or they’re going to hurt like hell.”

Billy shook his head, “You want me to milk myself?”

“Would you prefer I do it?”

“No.”

Billy watched as the liquid continued to dribble. A slight squeeze shot a thin line of white liquid into the bottom of the glass. “Wow.” Several squeezes filled a third of the glass.

A few of the girls at school had gotten pregnant over the last year. All of them tried to be discreet when it came time to pump but some guys never missed an opportunity to tease. Everyone knew it shouldn’t be a big deal - women with babies had been lactating since the beginning of time. Billy watched as his hand squeezed over and over. It was one thing to feel the weight on his chest … this was something else. Billy looked down, thinking of a babe, small and innocent, looking up.

“I need another glass.”

Tamsyn pointed at a nearby cabinet, “There’s more above the bar.”

Billy walked across the room, doing his best not to spill while holding his leaking boob steady. “This is so embarrassing.”

Tamsyn grinned. “Wait until you get your first period.”

“Ohhh…. gross. Are you trying to talk me out of this?” Billy looked out over the forest, praying his friends weren’t using the binoculars.

Chapter 21

March 1922

Tamsyn’s eyes glowed red as she guided herself through the open window. A towering figure emerged from the shadows, his crimson skin radiant in the flickering firelight. Two long, curved horns protruded from the creature’s head, casting an eerie shadow over the whole room.

“You’re late.”

Tamsyn tried to run the first time she’d seen Gunther in demon form. Now the sight put her into an uncontrollable frenzy.

The demon’s sharp fangs gleamed in the flickering light, and his claws, razor-sharp talons, tapped together in an unsettling rhythm. A barbed tail lashed back and forth, leaving trails of sparks in its wake and the air crackled with an otherworldly energy as Gunther’s true form cast a palpable chill over the room.

Tamsyn lay obedient on the floor. “Come and get it.”

She knew Gunther wasn’t interested in small talk in this form or any other. He’d long become detached from the world, only interested in what others could do for him.

Gunther sniffed at her belly. “Why do you lay with such pathetic creatures and their weak seed?”

“It’s the best I can get.”

“We both know that’s a lie. You can bed any man who catches your notice.” Gunther towered over her in demon form, standing at least seven feet tall, eight if you included the horns. His dick, bigger than any man she’d ever met in human form, became an obscene twenty inches and twice as thick when turned to demon.

She screamed the first time she saw it, thinking he might break her in half. The truth was their bodies were perfectly matched for one another.
Her body was made to receive seed and his to corrupt it.

Gunther’s dick plunged deep again and again. The physics of the act didn’t make sense considering her demonic form had a twenty inch waist, but the science was the last thing on her mind.

Infernal screams echoed into the night but everyone in the house knew better than to cross Gunther. As soon as he got what he came for, Gunther disappeared from the room, leaving Tamsyn alone in the darkness.

She crossed the room in a single bound and landed on her favorite perch of her room’s window sill. The first night she come home she’d jumped from this very spot, with Mr. McClary’s seed still warm in her belly. She didn’t know her wings would sprout from her back without bidding, saving her from a nasty fall.

Again she stood in the window sill, now ready for another plunge into the darkness. She’d lost count of how many times she’d stood here. All she knew was her master had an insatiable appetite.

Across the room, the mirror showed a mesmerizing figure. Her skin was as smooth as alabaster, shimmering with an ethereal glow. Her lifeless eyes looked like two orbs of obsidian floating in a pool of blood, while her wild raven black hair cascaded down both shoulders.

She’d encountered many men in this visage, and despite the horror, none could resist her unholy appearance. At a thought, a pair of wings sprouted from her back as did the long, sinewy tail with a mind of its own. A permanent snarl remained on her face, and if ever given the cause to smile, the unfortunate observer would see a row of razor-sharp fangs, testifying to her true nature.

Tamsyn dove into the darkness, safe in the knowledge her base instinct would take over. She didn’t learn how to fly, she just knew. The town came into sight at once, and she climbed high into the heavens to get a better look. Pin-pricks of light showed from windows, mostly on the rich side of town. She flew over the church and smiled at the thought of dropping in on Preacher Stevens to give him a scare.

They'd all been right about her. Preacher Stevens. Mrs. McClary. The girls at school. She was always destined for hellfire and a lifetime of sin.
Her car came into sight quicker than she expected, and she fell from the sky, her feet hitting the ground without making a sound. Supernatural vision spied the perimeter to see if anyone waited for her return. She saw nothing. Tamsyn picked the abandoned old mine shaft with care. The closest person was at least ten miles away. She’d sleep in the mine until the hunger wore off.

A basket of food lay waiting in the trunk of her car so she could replenish her energy in the normal fashion after she woke. At present, Tamsyn only thought of sleep as her wings wrapped around her body to keep out the cold. Tears filled her face until slumber finally took her.

Chapter 22

Billy rubbed his chest. Tamsyn said the milking would relieve the pain but they still hurt.

“So you’re saying when I leave this house, the whole world will think I’ve always been a girl?”

“Yes.”

“How will that work?”

“I’m going to cast a magic spell … poof. When you leave the house, everyone’s memory will be of a girl. It’s not difficult to understand.”

Tamsyn measured some reagents then added them to a cauldron. They reacted with the reagents inside causing a puff of smoke to rise.

Billy asked, “What about school? Does the spell change the computer system? Then there’s my driver’s license. And what about hospital records? My birth certificate? And social security cards?”

“All being handled.”

“That’s convenient.”

Tamsyn shook her head in exasperation. “It’s all a day's work in the life of a witch.”

Billy continued to massage his breasts. “Is it close to midnight?”

Tamsyn stirred the pot. “Worried about your new friends disappearing?”

“Maybe.” Bill shrugged.

“Good. Because I’m ready to start.” Tamsyn said, “All I need is your right hand.”

“My right hand?” Billy held it out and watched as Tamsyn flashed a blade across Billy’s palm. “What the fuck?” Bright crimson flowed from Billy’s hand.

“Blood is needed for the spell and I need more.” Tamsyn said, “Hold out your other hand.”

Billy shook his head. “No way.”

“Do you want to keep your tits?”

Billy held out his hand but couldn't watch. He felt the blade cut through him when Tamsyn’s knife flashed again. “Dammit. That hurts.”

“Don’t be a baby.” Tamsyn turned the knife around, offering it to Billy. “Now it's your turn to do me.”

Billy asked, “You want me to cut you?”

“Yes.” Tamsyn nodded, “Do what I did… a quick slash across each palm. The knife is very sharp so let the blade do the work.”

Billy used the blade on Tamsyn’s right hand. The knife cut deep. “Ooops. That’s might need stitches.”

“It’s fine.” Tamsyn held out her hand, the blood not as bad as Billy feared. “Do my other hand, we don’t have much time. Two minutes to
midnight.”

“We have to cast it at midnight?”

"The spell is strongest if cast at the stroke of midnight during a Hunter's Moon."

Billy did better with the knife for his second attempt.

“Good. Now lay back Billy and I’ll do the rest.”

Tamsyn closed her eyes. “Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”

Billy asked, “What did that mean?”

Tamsy ignored him, repeating the chant over and over.

“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”
“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”
“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”

As Tamsyn chanted, the jars grew brighter, until essence within flew from their glass cages.

Billy asked “Was that supposed to happen?

“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”
“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”
“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”

The essence began to move in a circle around the room as Tamsyn positioned her body over Billy, grasping his hands while continuing her chant. A second voice spoke.

“Why are you hesitating, Billy? Everyone at school knows you’re a girl. Your parents know. You grandparents know. You friends know. And deep down … you know it too.”

Pinpoints of light surrounded them both, the lights so bright making it hard to see. Faster and faster, brighter and brighter.

“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”
“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”
“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”

“Become the girl of your dreams, Billy.”

Billy grabbed at his chest and he screamed as something pressed down hard. He tried to take another breath but each felt shallow.

“What’s happening?” Billy gasped, his voice creeping higher.

“Dreams come true. You are turning, Billy. Embrace your destiny."

A fire burnt within Billy, as unseen hands began exploring his new self. Long dreamed curves formed around his hips and ass. Muscle shrunk. Bone disappeared.

“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”
“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”
“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”

Something cupped Billy's breasts, molding and caressing them while a sensation of spreading womanhood started between his legs then crawled up his spine.

“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”
“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”
“Aninu sullu a getsu ne qarhu ca sekura, pasaru de usku, ebetua ne ildu…”

Billy felt Tamsyn kiss him, her lips fierce as she straddled him.

“Tell me you want to be a girl.”

Billy arched his back, the crease between his legs longing to be touched, “I want to be a girl.”

“You’ve always wanted to be a girl. You’ve dreamt of it since you were a child.”

Billy nodded, “I’ve dreamt of it since I was a child.”

“You want this change to be permanent.”

Something big and hard slid across Billy’s slit. “Oh god, yes.”

“We need to work together.”

The tip pressed forward but stopped short. “Please, yes.”

“Promise you’ll serve me. And listen to all I say.”

“Oh god… oh god… yes.”

The voice asked, “At the cost of your very soul?”

A large phallus entered, pressing deep into Billy’s core. “Yes … yes … yes… for god’s sake … yes.”

Billy cried out, as if awakened from a bad dream. Intense sensations pulsed from his core. A look at the sky showed the moon shining down but something felt off. Sixty-four jars surrounded the room. Where each had recently held the wisp of a flame, all sat empty. He was cold. So cold.

Nothing seemed real. Tamsyn had shown him her powers but he never believed she could do this. Billy reached with a hand, his long nails touching his face and then his chest. His hands slid down the curves of his naked body past his hips and towards the void below.

Everything had changed.

Unfamiliar limbs made it tough to stand. The walk to the bar took twice as long as it should. The reflection in the mirror showed a girl with long black hair, a thin waist, wide hips, and two massive breasts. Billy reached once more to touch the slit, and found nothing familiar, not even a nub.

Another look in the mirror showed he looked exactly like the girl in the black & white picture. He knew he should be freaking out.

Shivering hands poured a cup of hot tea. He added two sugars and a bit of milk before taking a drink but the liquid did little to warm him. A pack of Tamysn’s cigarettes and her ivory cigarette holder lay on the counter but the craving was too much.

Billy ran to the window, finding his body’s movement easier with every step. Something called to him outside, something that could sate his hunger. A look through the night’s sky showed every house in town. He could see them clearly though most of the town’s lights had been turned off. Tiny dots of warmth called from the town but it was the nearby campfire that had what he needed.

Four boys sat in a circle telling their stories. They’d been there for hours, waiting for him.

He could feel their presence, each body calling to him but one called the loudest. Billy had been best friends with Tyler since elementary school but never had the guts to tell him his true feelings.

He unleashed a decade of longing in a single burst. The entire group looked up at the window, all seeing their changed friend standing naked before them. Billy didn’t feel an ounce of shame.

He called again. “I need you, Tyler.”

Tyler began to move. “Yes, Tamsyn.”

Tyler’s voice sounded in Billy’s head as if the pair stood next to each other. “Oh fuck.”

Billy felt Tyler began to climb the hill.

“No … no … no …” Billy shouted at Tyler but his friend wouldn’t stop.

“I see you woke up.” A voice sounded from the doorway.

Billy turned to Tamsyn, who now stood in the door’s frame. “Tyler is coming.”

“I know. Don't you think it’d be best if you put some clothes on before he arrives.”

Billy’s hunger grew as Tyler climbed each step. "I think I might hurt him."

"You need to learn control."

“Control?” Billy asked, "How do I learn control?"

"I'm going to teach you."

---

---

It shouldn’t be a big deal. All Billy's friends have visited the widow's house and each seemed to come away better for the experience. Visiting her has been a rite of passage for boys in town for as long as anyone can remember.

Billy knows he should want this. The whispers about him have been growing and even his friends are starting to ask questions. Tonight is the night if he's going to end the rumors. Should it matter if it’s Halloween and there’s a full moon in the sky?

---

Chapter 23 - Eddie

October 13, 1918

The scent of fresh-baked baguettes mingled with the smell of blooming lavender filling the chateau. A look out the window, showed the same cobblestone streets where he’d recently strolled.wearing a long silk dress.

"Bonjour, Ed-die!" Marie’s thick accented voice called out. “You got ‘em.”

He’d taken a few sojourns into the wider world. Today’s visit was to the bakery. Eddie froze when he saw the American MPs out the window.

“Shit.”

A heavy knock landed on the door’s frame. Marie rushed to answer it.

“We’ve gotten a report there’s a deserter living in this house.”

“A deser-tare???” Marie replied. “We ‘ave no deser-tare.”

The leader pushed his way inside. “I’m sure you won’t mind us taking a look.”

Eddie hid in the closet but they found him.

“Merci...” Eddie's mind went blank. "I... I'm sorry, my English isn't very good.”

One of the younger men wore a disgusted look. Your French is worse.”

Eddie nodded. He didn’t want to get the girls in trouble. “I'll go peacefully."

The leader grinned. “Of course. Ma’dam.” The other men stared at each other, the smiles clear on their faces.

October 17, 1918

The hours passed in a haze. When the door to his room finally creaked open again, Eddie looked up to see a stern-faced doctor flanked by two orderlies.

"I'm Dr. Hargrove. I’m here to help you, son."

One of the orderlies approached with a syringe. Eddie's eyes widened. "No, please. Not another." he begged. "I don't need—"

But his protests were cut short as the needle pierced his skin. Almost immediately, the world began to blur at the edges. Eddie felt himself being lifted onto a stretcher, the ceiling spinning above him.

"There, there," Dr. Hargrove's voice came from somewhere far away. "You'll feel better soon. We'll make you right again."

Eddie's thoughts scattered like leaves in the wind as he tried to hold onto memories of the chateau.

October 21, 1918

White sterile walls drifted in and out of focus

A nurse approached, syringe in hand. "Time for your medication."

“Please, no.” Eddie mustered all his strength to shake his head. "I don't want it."

The nurse's expression softened. "It's for your own good, dear. Doctor's orders."

The days drifted in and out in a dreamlike haze. The nights punctuated moments of terror.

October 25, 1918

"What in God's name have you done to him?" a familiar voice demanded.

Eddie didn’t move. He’d gotten used to the hallucinations.

The nurse shouted. "Sir, you can't go in there…"

Someone with a strong grip grabbed Eddie by the hand. "I'm here, son. I’m getting you out of this."

The words did little to bring Eddie relief. The combination of the war, his temporary respite, and the drugs had taken him to a faraway place.

October 28, 1918

“I want him out of here right now.”

“I can’t do that, sir.” The doctor stiffened. "This is a military matter. I'm afraid there’s a process we must follow. It doesn’t matter how much money you offer."

Eddie looked up from his bed to see his father and Dr. Hargrove standing in his room.

Mr. McClary shouted, "You will release my son this instant. Do you have any idea who I am? I know people who can have you demoted to stretcher bearer in a week.”

“I know who you are and I’m telling you it doesn’t matter..” Dr. Hargrove shouted back. The man adjusted his coat and lowered his tone. “If your son were anyone else, he’d be handcuffed and sitting in a brig. I promise your son is getting the best care the army has to offer.

McClary looked at Eddie. Eddie looked back. Tears filled both of their eyes.

“Your presence is upsetting your son. “Let’s go to the next room. I’m sure we can come to an arrangement that works for us both.”

Eddie watched through blurry eyes as his father took a last look then walked out of the room. The minutes crawled by like hours, the hours like days.

October 30, 1918

Eddie's father strode in, followed by a grim-faced man.

His father turned. “Can you give us a moment, alone?”

“Of course, sir.”

Eddie tried to get up but his body wouldn’t move. He saw his Dad staring, crying unashamed tears until Mr. McClary cleared his throat. “The man who came into the room with me is Colonel Stevens. You were reassigned to his unit with an effective date of October 1st, 1918. ”

“October 1st?” The memories fluttered in Eddie’s mind. He tried to do the math but his brain wouldn’t work. “What’s today’s date?”

“October 30th.”

Eddie nodded. “Tomorrow is Halloween.”

Mr. McClary said, “They say the fighting should stop soon. I’m hearing rumors of peace negotiations. Either way, you’ll be far from the fighting. I’ve hired specialists to make sure you get the best care until your unit is mustered out.”

“Halloween was Adam’s favorite holiday.”

“Yeah?”

Eddie found he was able to sit up. “Did they tell you where the MPs found me?”

Mr. McClary didn’t respond.

“I wish I died with the others.”

“Don’t say that, Eddie.”

Eddie said, “You’ve always known I’m not you, Dad. I’ll never be you. I’m a freak.”

Mr. McClary put his hand on Eddie’s forehead, “You’re my son and I love you. I must say you’ve made quite a catch with that wife of yours. I’ve been quite impressed with Tamysn. Given another year, I bet she’d be able to run the business better than me. Can’t let her know that, of course.” Mr. McClary chuckled.

Eddie felt for his breast pocket. “Where’s my picture tin?”

Mr. McClary shook his head. “I don’t know.”

“I need it. And my letters too.”

“I’ll ask the doctor.”

Eddie nodded. “Thanks.”

June, 1920

The rat-tat-tat of gunfire jolted Eddie from slumber, waking to find himself drenched in sweat. For a moment, he thought he was in France. The soft sheets and warm bed told otherwise.

The realization did little to stop the horror playing out in his brain. Memories of the last scene replayed again and again. "No, no, no," he gasped, as his eyes darted wildly around the darkened bedroom. Familiar shapes allowed him to focus but his beating heart refused to slow.

Every night was a thousand forgotten memories finding their way back into his mind. Tonight’s revelation was a simple patrol. An artillery barrage forced them to find cover when they jumped into a shell crater occupied by an enemy soldier. Everyone shot the German soldier only to find him staring with lifeless eyes. Daniel took the pictures of the man’s girlfriend. Eddie took the Hun’s pouch and found a biscuit inside. A single bite told the thing half full of sawdust.

“Are you okay? Eddie saw Tamsyn standing in the doorway, her eyes full of concern. Eddie pressed his hands against his own eyes, trying to force the memories to fade.

Eddie nodded as he spoke under his breath. "It's not real … it’s not real … it’s not real.”

Tamsyn lit a cigarette and passed Eddie the pack. “Do you want me to make coffee?”

It was taking longer to get back to sleep.

Eddie swung his legs over the side of the bed, his toes pressing down on the cold hardwood floor. He brushed his fingers against the rough scar along his hairline, a gift from an unseen German who granted him relief from the front lines for a week.

"Not tonight," he growled, pushing himself to his feet.

Eddie made his way to the bathroom, barely recognizing the face staring back. Dark circles shadowed his eyes, a stark contrast to the color of his skin. He splashed water on his face in hopes it might help.

As Eddie patted his face dry with a towel, he caught sight of the bottle of Luminal sitting on the edge of the sink. His therapist said they’d bring relief. All they did was put him in a stupor that lasted most of the next day.

Eddie pushed the temptation of temporary relief from his mind, ensuring another long night.

Tamsyn asked, “Do you want me to join you in bed?”

Eddie shook his head. “I’ve told you. I’m worried I might hurt you.”

Tamsyn nodded, the disappointment clear on her face.

Eddie sank onto the bed, a place where sleep had become a luxury. When the coast was clear he pulled an item from the depths under the blankets. The silk scarf still smelled of his wife as he wrapped it around his neck.

September 1920

The clatter of pots and pans echoed as Eddie made his way downstairs. The contractors had made good progress with the house, each day it looked more like a home.

As he entered the kitchen, Eddie was met by the smell of coffee and bacon.

"Morning, sunshine," Tamsyn said, her voice sounding forced. "You're up early."

"Couldn't sleep," Eddie replied, grabbing a cup. “Where’s the cook?”

“The chef has the day off. I’m cooking today.”

Eddie looked at his wife. He knew he didn’t deserve her. “What’s the special occasion?”

Tamsyn shrugged, a slight smile forming on her lips. "Does there need to be one?"

Eddie chuckled, the sound hollow even to his own ears. "I suppose not."

As he reached for a mug, Eddie caught his reflection in the window, then turned away from the sight.

May 1921

The floorboard creaked when Eddie heard Tamsyn approach. She opened the door to find Eddie in the middle of her closet, draped in one of her favorite silk dresses.

"I can…" Eddie's voice cracked, his face flushing crimson. "...I can explain."

Tamsyn's hand flew to her mouth, “What are you doing?"

Eddie ran, not stopping until he found the refuge in his bedroom.

Her soft knock came to Eddie's door a minute later.

“Eddie?” The door creaked open.

Eddie sat up in bed, as a cascade of sobs wracked his body. “I wish you’d hadn’t seen that.”

“I’m glad I did. It explains so much. I was starting to think it was my fault.”

Eddie looked up. “What do you mean?”

"I love you Eddie." Tamsyn shut the door and sat beside her husband. “I loved you the minute I saw you but you never want to touch me and we've never had sex. Meanwhile, some of my girl friends have three kids.”

“I know.”

“Do you find me attractive?”

“You’re the most beautiful girl in the county.”

Tamsyn asked, “Then why won’t you…”

Eddie interrupted, “I loved Adam ... in a different way than I love you.”

“Oh. I think I understand.”

Tamsyn pulled on Eddie's dress. “Is that why you wear this?”

Eddie shook his head. “I started wearing dresses long before I met Adam.” Eddie's shoulders slumped, "I've always felt... different." he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. “I’m more myself in clothes like this."

Tamsyn nodded. She put a hand on Eddie’s arm. "You've been carrying this burden your whole life?"

Eddie nodded, tears welling in his eyes. "I never meant to hurt you, Tamsyn. I understand if you want to leave…"

"No," Tamsyn interrupted, her voice firm but gentle. "Don't apologize. Not for this." She cupped his face in her hands, forcing him to meet her gaze. "I love you, Eddie. All of you. Even the parts you've been afraid to share with me."

Eddie found it hard to breathe.. "You're not... disgusted by me?"

Tamsyn shook her head, a small smile tugging at her lips. "How could I be disgusted by the man I love?" She ran her fingers through Eddie’s long hair. "Would you like to … dress up with me?"

Eddie looked at Tamsyn, clutching the fabric of the dress. "You'd do that?"

"More than okay," Tamsyn assured him. "I want to know all of you, Eddie. Or... should I call you something else when you’re dressed like this?"

A look of wonder crossed Eddie's face. "The girls in France called me Edelle," Eddie nodded.

Tamsyn's smile widened. "Then Edelle it is."

June 1921

“You think this hocus pocus will work?”

Tamsyn said, “It can’t hurt, can it?”

Eddie stood before the mirror, adjusting his wig and smoothing down his dress. His hands trembled slightly as he applied a final touch of lipstick.

"You look breathtaking, dear," Tamsyn said, appearing behind him in the reflection. She squeezed his shoulders reassuringly. "Are you ready?"

Eddie took a deep breath, steeling himself. "As ready as I'll ever be," he replied, his voice quivering.

Tamsyn pulled a small notebook from out of her dress. Then raised a hand in front of her body. Her words started the incantation slow and kept at a deliberate pace.

Under veil of illusion, dark and deep
and the mask of Venus, whose secrets we keep.
To the person inside, wild and free.
Transform the body by moon’s decree,

Eddie looked at Tamsyn. “Well?”

“Well what?”

“Did it work?”

“I don’t notice anything but maybe it doesn’t work on me since I cast the spell.”

Tamsyn looked outside, yelling down the hall. The large man appeared almost at once.

Gunther looked in the room, looking cross when he saw Eddie, “Where did you come from”

Tamsyn pointed at Eddie and back to Gunther, “Gunther, this is Edelle. She’s visiting from Nashville. Edelle, this is Gunther, my rude butler.”

“My apologies, Miss Edelle.” Gunther gave a broad bow. “No one informed me the missus had a guest.”

Eddie felt a profound sense of peace as the large butler stared at him. For the first time in his life, Eddie felt seen.

January 1922

The solarium's walls gleamed in the moonlight, his sanctuary turned to prison. Eddie’s fingers absently traced the photograph of a simpler time. Memories of laughter and camaraderie mixed with the acrid smell explosions.

Sounds of his wife and Gunther’s carnal indulgences filled the house. They no longer bothered to hide their amorous encounters after his Mom died.

‘What would my father do?’

March 1922

The workers in the factory stopped as soon as Eddie stepped in the building. For the past five months he’d repeated the same routine, driving to work, climbing the stairs, and shutting the door behind him. The familiar scent of his father’s cigar clung to every surface of the office.

Mrs. Hawkins poked her head in the door. "The foreman needs to speak with you about the new production line."

“Of course.” Eddie took a deep breath. “Give me two minutes then send him in.”

Eddie caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror. The man in the suit looked like a stranger. He looked to the heavens looking for guidance. “Is this what you wanted for me, Dad?"

Memories of the ghosts haunted every step.

Chapter 24

Gunther had never been much of a conversationalist. His vocabulary consisted mostly of ‘yes ma’am’ and 'no ma’am before the change. Despite their ‘bound’, after the change the man said even less, not that there was much to say. Tamsyn’s body knew what he wanted.

Their routine settled like a stale marriage. She convinced him of keeping a pattern so she'd go out on Saturday nights then she and Gunther made the transfer as soon as she returned. After he’d gotten what he wanted, Gunther disappeared for a few days, returning on Wednesday or Thursday, to start badgering her for more.

Tamysn stared at the books piled high on the library’s desk, hoping for an answer. She’d read them cover to cover and the words, once gibberish, now reading like a 1st grade primer. An understanding that had come at the cost of her soul.

It was in these books where she learned the name of her affliction. Or more clearly, the affliction she’d brought upon herself. She found the description in a book called, Malleus Maleficarum, an ominous sounding Latin name which translated into English meant, ‘Hammer of Witches’.

A man wrote it in 15th century Europe hoping to rid the world of witchcraft. Ironically, Tamsyn found it a useful guide as a newly minted 20th century witch.

Witches are almost always female – the fairer sex are well known to be more easily corrupted, this truism going back to the days of Adam and Eve. Their ‘temperament toward flux’, ‘loose tongues’ and ‘lustfulness’ makes them an obvious target for Lucifer’s designs.

Despite the book’s inherent misogyny, Tamsyn couldn’t help but see the shades of herself in its description. A book called, ‘Powers of the Succuba’ helped even more.

The word ‘succuba’ comes from the Latin word -sub- meaning ‘under’ and -cubare- meaning ‘to lie’. Succubare - ‘to lie under’.

A succubus is a ‘manipulative demon’, and uses psychic abilities to seduce its prey. A succubus feeds on the semen of men, and can feed again and again, an act if continued will lead to the death of their prey.

The sections on succubi powers enlightened her as well:

The succubus has many powers including SuperSpeed, SuperStrength, and SuperStamina. Their Supernatural Beauty makes them irresistible to a man. The men who catch their gaze are entranced by desire. Skin to skin contact increases this desire a hundredfold, an act which will overcome the willpower of the most hardy of men and make them helpless pawns in the act of sexual intercourse. A succubus can instinctively shift their shape to match their target’s idea of beauty. They also have the ability to invade the dreams of men to seduce them.

Succubi use a power called the ‘Kiss of Death’ to steal life force from their victims to recharge their abilities and also to heal. Novice succubus often kill their victims using this spell as they learn the ways of their kind but this rarely happens with experienced succubi, as the goal of these demons is to incapacitate and copulate.

Each carnal encounter with a succubus increases the helpless binding of their victims. When encountering a succubus it is not uncommon to be forced to fight dozens of these hapless men before entering their lair.

Succubus can be hurt, but as they are demons, they cannot die through natural means. They are fast healers and sex will heal them completely. They are manipulative creatures, but most of their attacks focus on one target at a time. The exception is their siren song. Bind your ears tight before seeking one out as the sound of a succubus’ voice has been known to bewitch entire groups of men. Hunt them in groups and only with a priest who is proficient in exorcism. The primary target for your spears and crossbolts should be their wings. As these creatures are women, a gender without the necessary constitution for battle, a succubus always takes flight at the first sign of danger.. Once you pin their wings, a stake into their cold heart is the preferred method of killing. Decapitation works as well.

Tamsyn spent most of her days reading and re-reading the tomes. The part describing ‘Kiss of Death’ was a particularly difficult reminder.

Tamsyn rechecked her long leather gloves before entering the room. “How are you doing?”

Eddie sat in his usual reading spot on the couch in the Solarium.

Their conversations had become performative since the senior McClarys had fallen to ‘accidental deaths’. Eddie threw himself into his work during the day. The screams had returned at night.

“Good.”

Tamsyn wished she could touch him and consume his thoughts. It might help heal her husband’s grief. “I miss Edelle.”

Eddie nodded, “Me too.”

Edelle never strayed beyond the third floor of the house these days.

Tamsyn didn’t need her abilities to feel the sadness in Eddie’s eyes. They’d spent most of their marriage without touching the other, so it wasn’t a big change for Tamsyn to keep him at bay now. It was like their entire marriage was in preparation for her affliction.

Tamsyn stood by his side, “What are you reading?”

“Wuthering Heights.”

Tamsyn smiled. “We read it in school. Do you like it?”

Eddie nodded.

Tamsyn said, “I love the Bronte sisters.” She knew her words might sound empty, but it was true. She’d read the book dozens of times, “You don’t find it depressing?”

Eddie shrugged.

Tamsyn held up a pair of driving gloves, “The car is ready. Wanna go for a drive?”

Eddie shrugged. “Sure. Sounds fun.”

“Wanna drive?” Tamsyn held up the keys.

“OK.”

Tamsyn looked at Eddie, seeing a little of his old fire. “Really?”

Eddie nodded somberly, “I miss driving.”

Tamsyn stared at her husband. “I miss your driving too.”

The car descended the hill at slow speed, no unreasonable caution considering the recent tragedy which had befell their family. Tamsyn didn’t mind. She enjoyed the view as they slowly passed the library, the town hall, and the factory. She didn’t say a word when they drove past the school. She already guessed where Eddie was taking her.

Eddie asked, “Do you remember this place?”

“Of course.” Tamsyn nodded. Postwar houses lined the intersection, but the street looked the same. “This is the spot you asked me to be your girlfriend.”

Eddie’s face grew somber. “Do you regret it?”

Tamsyn laughed, “I have lots of regrets but marrying you is not one of them.”

“You keep saying that, but I find it hard to believe.”

Tamsyn pointed at the road, “Do you know how fast we’ve been driving?”

Eddie shrugged, “I don’t know. Twenty miles per hour?”

Tamsyn said, “Did you know racehorses can go double that speed?”

A smile crept on Eddie’s face. “So I’ve been told.” He fixed the goggles to his face, “Are you up for it?”

“You know I am.” Tamsyn affixed her goggles. “Does my hair look a mess?”

Eddie said, “You always look amazing Tamsyn.” Eddie shook his head and seemed lost for a moment.

Tamsyn sat, patiently waiting for her husband’s mind to return to the present.

Eddie asked, “Are you ready?”

“Whenever you are.”

Eddie screamed as the old Raceabout took a turn going sixty. The company that made these cars had gone out of business a few years earlier, but Tamsyn bought enough spare parts to keep it running. There were nicer cars on the road, but none had the same style.

Tamsyn smiled at her husband. It was nice to see color return to her husband’s face as they defied death together. Super strength bound her to the seat while the durability of her kind meant she’d survive the worst of crashes but Eddie didn’t know that.

Eddie stopped the car by the tree where they had their first date. “That was fun.”

“It was.” Tamsyn nodded. It was good to see her husband smile.

Eddie lifted the picnic basket from the back. “Do you remember the day I brought you to this place?”

Tamsyn said, “How could I forget? The girls at school seemed to think you’d taken my virginity when we returned to school.”

Eddie smiled. “They were bitches. A simple misunderstanding.”

“As I recall, you didn’t bother to correct the misunderstanding.”

“I should have…” Eddie said, his eyes turning down, “…those rumors staved off rumors … about me and Andy.”

“I forgive you.” Tamsyn smiled, “Did you know Jenny was the one who started those rumors? She didn’t tell me until last year.”

“Sounds like Jenny.” Eddie asked. “Do you talk to the old gang much anymore?”

“No.” Tamsyn shook her head. “So much has changed. High school feels like a lifetime ago.”

Eddie nodded but didn’t say a word.

Tamsyn spread out the blanket and opened the picnic basket to see the goodies inside. “Mmmm … We’ve got wine and cheese. Some salami and hard boiled eggs.” Tamsyn scrambled through the other items inside but didn’t see the thing she wanted. “Dammit. I was hoping for some pastries. Our new chef is supposed to be great with desserts.” She held up a piece of bread in a gloved hand for her husband to try.

Eddie took a piece and chewed, his eyes clearing from the hell where his mind had drifted.

“The new staff is good.” Eddie said, “I notice they’re all women, except Gunther. Did he do the hiring?”

“Yeah…” Tamsyn breathed deep. “There’s a lot of widows in town who need jobs.”

“You know he’s fucking them?”

Tamsyn gave a helpless look and shrugged. “I’m not sure what you want me to say.”

Eddie’s eyes looked lost for a moment before he sat on the blanket next to Tamsyn. “I’ve never thanked you for fixing up the house. You’ve done an amazing job.”

“You helped too.”

“We both know that’s not true.” Eddie looked at his wife. “Didn’t we promise to stop lying to each other?”

Tamsyn said, “I know. Our relationship … is complicated.”

“You think?” Eddie laughed so hard his eyes began to water.

“I miss Edelle.”

Eddie nodded. “Me too.”

“She could come downstairs. I’d love to have dinner with her. We could even take in a show in Nashville if you feel up to it.”

“I can’t … She can’t…” Eddie shook his head, “I’m running Dad’s company now.”

Tamsyn knew the answer before she asked. “Of course.”

Eddie’s face grew grim, “Do you love him?”

“Who?”

“Don’t play coy.” Eddie said, “You and Gunther aren’t exactly discrete.”

“Sorry.”

“It’s ok.” Eddie smiled. “You’ve become quite a screamer.”

“I’m really sorry, Eddie.”

“It’s ok.” Eddie shook his head. “I don’t blame you.”

“I wish you would.”

Eddie shook his head. “I keep thinking about Dad. I wonder what he’d do if he were in my shoes.”

“You’re not your Dad, Eddie.”

“Don’t remind me.” Eddie’s face turned grim as he went to his dark place.

Tamsyn waited until her husband’s mind returned before speaking. “I’m a whore. Your mother was right.”

“Stop it.” Eddie shook his head. “I know you have needs. I wish I could fill them.” He sighed. “You could sleep with a half dozen men in a single night and I wouldn’t care as long as you came home to me.” He stared at Tamsyn with an intense stare on his face. “I need you. I know it doesn’t make sense.”

Tamsyn tried not to smile. She’d recently bedded ten men in a single night, and returned home wanting an eleventh.

“I’d be a fool to leave you, Tamsyn.” Eddie said, “I know you’ve been working behind my back to keep the plant running. It’s the only reason the business hasn’t fallen apart.” Eddie started to cry. “It’s you and I now. I don’t know what I’d do if I lost you too.” Eddie reached out with his hand to touch her face.

Tamsyn slapped Eddie’s hand away in horror. “Please don’t touch me.”

“Of course.” Her husband’s eyes turned fierce. He stared at her for several seconds before turning away. “You’re right. I have no right to ask anything of you.”

“It’s not what you think.” She wasn’t sure if her powers would affect a man like Eddie, but the skin-to-skin contact wasn’t worth the risk.
Tamsyn said, “I made a breakthrough in my studies the other day.”

“I can’t believe how much time you spend reading those smelly old books.”

“I’m thinking of getting rid of Gunther.” Tamsyn said. She gave Eddie a dead-eyed stare.

“Are you sure?”

“If I don’t do it now, I don’t think I’ll have the strength to do it later.”

Eddie said, “I’ll fire him.”

Tamsyn shouted. “You can’t.” She tried to compose herself as the tears came to eyes. She hadn’t been able to cry in months. Every day she felt she lost a little more of herself. She knew the only thing keeping her tethered to the mortal plane lay on the blanket next to her. “Gunther is my responsibility. I brought him into our house. It’s my job to make him leave.”

“Okay.”

“I do need one thing from you.”

“Anything.”

“I need you to sleep with me.”

“I can’t.” She felt Eddie turning away. “My thing hasn’t worked since the war.”

“I only ask that you try.” Tamsyn reached out with her feelings and pressed a slight stirring to her husband’s loins.

A smile came to Eddie’s face. “I’ll try.”

“Not today. Not tomorrow. But soon. Come to my bed when I call.”

“I will.” Tamsyn saw Eddie’s hand on his crotch. “What are we going to do with the rest of today?”

“Today?” Tamsyn wiped away a tear as she leaned back on the blanket and stared up at the clouds. “Today, I’m going to spend today with the love of my life.”

“What are you reading?”

Tamsyn didn’t look up. “A book.”

“I know it’s a book. Duh.” Jenny looked over Tamsyn’s shoulder. “The writing looks like chicken scratching.”

Tamsyn said, “It’s Sanskrit. Ancient Sanskrit to be precise.”

Jenny laughed. “You read ancient Sanskrit?”

Tamsyn asked, “Are you going to talk all lunch?”

She’d asked Jenny to lunch to get some privacy. They met at an out-of-the-way diner where Tamsyn hoped no one would know them, though in a town this size it was unlikely. .

Jenny asked, “How’s Eddie?”

“Grrrrr…” Tamsyn looked exasperated, “Please Jenny. Fifteen minutes. That’s all I ask. Eat your lunch and afterward, I promise, we can gossip.”

Jenny shrugged her shoulders and took a bite of her salad, mumbling under her breath, “This is pretty good.”

Tamsyn ignored her, taking several concentrated minutes trying to decipher the words. She’d found interpreting the spellbook wasn’t just reading the words. You needed to see between them. Gunther was growing suspicious. He’d begun to forbid her entry to the library. The staff he’d hired, now watched her every move.

Each page in the book started as guesswork. Tamsyn began keeping a notebook with the hope she might find something useful in a week or two. She’d worked for months with little progress until she found this book.

“What are you writing?”

Tamsyn gave Jenny an angry stare. “Do you mind?”

Jenny looked at her plate. Tamsyn saw she’d finished her salad.

“Sorry.” A look at the wall clock showed it’d been twenty minutes since Jenny last spoke.

“It’s ok.” Jenny said, “You look so cute when you concentrate. Your nose crinkles up like a bunny.”

Tamsyn touched her face, “Does it really?”

Jenny smiled. “How’s Eddie?”

Tamsyn shook her head. “Sometimes good. Sometimes bad.”

Jenny said, “It’s gotta be tough losing both parents at the same time.”

“Yeah.” Tamsyn nodded. “The board of directors of the company has voted to do a mental evaluation. They’re trying to remove him as CEO.”

Jenny said, “Can they do that? Isn’t his name on the building?”

“It won’t matter if they have the votes. I wouldn’t take an investigation long to find out about what happened in the war, and then…” Tamsyn sighed. “… I can’t save Eddie if he loses control of his Dad’s company.”

“Shit.” Jenny looked disgusted. “I’m so sorry to hear that. Is there anything I can do?”
Tamsyn tried to smile. She wished she had more time. She took a deep breath. As much as it pained her, there was no other way. “Can you go to the church for me?”

Jenny laughed. “The church? Me?. Those people don’t exactly approve of my lifestyle.”

Tamsyn smiled. These days she broke out in a rash whenever she got within a block of the church. She’d probably burst into flames if she went inside. “I need to talk to Preacher Stevens. Do you think you could get him to join us at next week’s luncheon?”

Jenny nodded, “Probably. That man is always looking for a free lunch.”

Tamsyn held up her glass, “Tell him I’ll buy him the most expensive bottle of wine in the house.”

“Heh heh.” Jenny laughed, “I’ll remind him.”

Eddie sat on the floor, staring into darkness, oblivious to her entrance whether due to Tamsyn’s innate stealth ability or Eddie’s distracted mind. Edelle wore her favorite French import, and had painted her face to look like a French whore.

“Edelle?”

“Yeah?”

Tamsyn nodded, “Everyone missed you at work today.”

Her husband looked up with tears in his eyes. “I’m sorry.”

“I know.”

Eddie said, “I don’t know what came over me.”

Tamsyn wasn’t sure what to do, “It’s not your fault.” She felt Eddie jump when she placed a gloved hand on his shoulder.

“Yes, it is.”

Gunther had put the angry thoughts into Eddie’s mind. Every time she mated with her master, she knew he could sense her rebellion. The beatings by Eddie were the latest torment the demon inflicted upon her.

“I like your outfit.”

“I hate it.”

“It looks good on you.”

Tamsyn placed a gloved hand on Eddie’s shoulder. She’d gotten good at controlling men’s passions. With each touch came a knowledge of accompanying emotions and it made sense if Gunther could do the same. The demon knew this man was the source of her resistance. His latest ploy was an attempt to snuff it out.

Eddie pulled at the cloth. “These clothes … it’s silly thinking Edelle is a real person..”

“It’s not silly. Edelle is you.” She didn’t need powers to know this to be true. “I cried for years when you left for war leaving me to sleep in an unconsummated bed but everything made sense when I met Edelle. You never wanted to be with me. You want to be me.”

Eddie looked up, “I’m so sorry. I had no right.”

“It’s ok. I have a plan that’s going to make everything right.”

“A plan?”

“Come to my bedroom on Saturday night. I’d like it if you wore my wedding dress.”

Tamsyn saw a spark of hope in Eddie’s eyes. ”I’ll be there.”

Chapter 25

Billy stared at Tyler, who sat on Tamsyn’s bed with a dreamlike look on his face. “Do you remember me, Tyler?”

“Of course, I remember you.” Tyler gave a nervous laugh.

The laugh caused a surge of warth to course into Billy’s body all at once. He touched his boobs. He felt the growing desire in his loins. A look in the mirror showed a beautiful woman standing in the room next to his best friend.

Tyler asked, “I know we’re only supposed to visit once.”

“You didn’t come here to check on Billy?” Billy wasn’t sure if he should be mad.

Tyler nodded, a temporary fog lifting from his brain. “Where is Billy?”

A part of Billy wanted to run. A bigger part wanted to tear into Tyler and suck out the juices. He slid a hand down to find he was already slick with anticipation.

Billy asked, “Tell me about your friend.”

Tyler stared as if confused for a second. Tyler closed his eyes. “We’ve been best buds since third grade. We do everything together.”

“Do you find him weird?”

Tyler said, “He’s uhhh … quirky.”

“Quirky?” Billy felt his emotion stir. “What does that mean?”

“He’s different from most guys.” Tyler said.

“So he’s weird.”

Tyler stated, “Billy is my best friend. It’s been true since the moment we met.”

“What would you say if I told you your friend Billy is a girl on the inside?” A tear streamed down Billy’s face. It was the first time he’d said the words out loud.

“Billy? A girl?”

Billy stared in the mirror. Anyone looking at him right now would think of him as a girl. Tamsyn’s help consisted of handing him a spandex bodysuit.

He looked exactly like the Silver Fox in the initial run of her comic book, #42 - The Fox Rises. A classic issue. It was the one where readers learn her secret identity. Billy knew it was Tyler’s favorite.

“Is everything ok?”

Billy nodded, “Yeah.” He’d wanted this for so long but it felt wrong.

Tamsyn’s voice called out. ‘Go to him, Billy. You know you want him.’

Billy looked around. He could hear Tamsyn’s voice but couldn’t see her.

“How do you like my costume?”

Tyler’s eyes brightened. “I like it. The same as last time.”

“Issue #42 of the original Silver Fox run is a classic.”

Tyler stared in surprise. “You read comic books?”

Billy stammered, “Uhhh … yeah. I … uhh … I guess I have a lot of time on my hands. I’m sure I’ve read issue #42 more times than you.” Probably true and for a completely different reason.

“I doubt that is possible.”

“This was my first attempt at cosplay.” Billy turned, mimicking Silver Fox’s famous pose. “What do you think?”

“You’re a natural.”

A surge of energy from Tyler flowed into Billy causing him to fall to the floor.

“Are you ok?”

Tamsyn said, ‘Go to him Billy. The longer you fight it, the worse the result. You need to feed.’

Billy stood, feeling the animalistic snarl on his lips.

“Do you want to sleep with me?”

“Do I want to sleep with you?” An incredulous grin crept on Tyler’s lips.

Billy said, “I’m serious. I need to hear it.”

“Hell yes I want to sleep with you.”

Tyler pulled down his pants, revealing a generously sized cock. Billy had seen it many times in gym class but never in this state. Billy’s feet had a mind of their own, his lips on his friend before his mind had a chance to object. Billy took his friend’s full length into his mouth, his carnal lust an unstoppable force.

A voice rose from the woods. Four boys sat around a cooler. Someone stacked a dozen empty beer bottles in a pile. “Do you think he’ll do it?”

The cutest boy said, “He’ll do it.”
The boy with the glasses answered, “I’m not so sure.”
The biggest boy said, “I’m starting to think he’s a faggot.”
The cutest boy said, “He’s not a faggot.”
The biggest boy said, “We’ve all seen the way he looks at you.”
The cutest boy answered, “Fuck off.”
The biggest boy said, “I bet he’d suck your dick if you asked.”
The cutest boy answered, “He’s up with the widow, isn’t he? That should prove something.”
The skinniest boy said, “It doesn’t mean they are fucking. Maybe she’s giving him advice on how to give a blow job.”
The biggest boy said, “You would know.”
The skinny boy standing up. “What are you trying to say?”
The boy with the glasses jumped into between them, “Don’t fight.”
The biggest boy stepped back, the crisis avoided. “Anyone want a beer?”

Wake up Billy.

Billy opened his eyes. Tyler lay on the bed next to him. He had a big smile on his face.

“Did we?”

Tyler smiled. “... best blow job of my life.”

Billy bit his lip, tasting the remnants of cum and swallowing it with the rest.

That’s not enough. You have to fuck him Billy.

“Noooo…” Something felt off.

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing.”

‘You can’t fight it.’

Billy said, “Your friend Billy. He’s not gay.”

Tyler droned, “I know.”

“He’s not straight either.”

Tyler said, “I know that too.”

Billy looked at Tyler, “You do?”

Tyler shrugged, “He’s my best friend. I know him better than anyone in the world.”

“Do you know he loves you?” Billy took Tyler’s hand, a new surge of energy

Tyler nodded. “... yeah… I love him too…”

Billy’s hand searched under the sheets. He found Tyler at half mast, soon growing to full length. No words were exchanged as Tyler straggled his friend’s body.

‘I love the power of youth.’

Only desire remained. A part of Billy’s brain screamed in defiance but it was no match for the hunger. Primal urges flamed inside, animal instincts reaching out as Billy’s voice became more demonic, “Take me, Tyler.”

Tyler nodded, pressing his penis against Billy’s body, causing him to almost pass out.

Their lips met, tongues touching like so many dreams. Years of desire surged through Billy as lightning coursed through his veins.”

“I need you, Tyler.” This time Tyler didn’t respond.

A look at Tyler showed his eyes had gone back into his head.

Billy flipped his friend over with one hand, then wrapped his arms around Tyler, straddling him in a cowgirl position. But losing his virginity for the second time this night flew from Billy’s mind as a pair of wings sprang out behind him.

‘Welcome to the sisterhood, Billy.’

Chapter 26

April 1922

“You can do it, Eddie.” Tamsyn pulled off her gloves. She’d taken more from Eddie than she could ever repay.

“I can’t. It’s never worked around girls.”

“We’re going to switch places.”

“I don’t understand.”

“Lay back.”

Fear was etched on Eddie’s face. “I can’t …”

Energy flowed into her from Eddie. It tasted different from the others, sweeter. Tamsyn pulled up the dress to reveal her husband’s nakedness.
The flesh in-between wasn’t impressive. It could hardly be after the years of no use.

“Relax. Let me show you.”

The wedding dress lay flayed behind Eddie’s head as Tamsyn leaned forward. She used her energy to do what her kind did best. Eddie felt the blood pump into his loins. “Oh my god… I think it’s working.”

“Shhhh…” She placed a finger on Eddie’s forehead. “Repeat these words. ‘I am you. You are me.’”

The changes to her own body happened without thought.

Eddie’s eyes went wide. “What??? How???”

“Don’t question it. Fall into the dream.”

Eddie’s eyes grew dim. Tamsyn whispered to Eddie’s ear, “I am entering you now.”

She pressed forward, her sex shrinking to accommodate Eddie’s small size. She grabbed Eddie’s hand and pressed them to her breasts.

“Feel yourself Eddie. This is your body.”

Eddie screamed when she knelt down to kiss him. Long strands of her hair covered both of their faces.

“The hair, these lips, my face. All of it yours.”

Eddie shouted, “Yes … yes… mine…”

Tamsyn knew it wouldn’t take long. She’d been in enough beds to know the feeling when a man was about to cum. She moved her hips in rhythm with her husband until she felt the sudden twitch. The entire encounter from beginning to end took less than forty-five seconds. Five years and forty-five seconds.

Light from Eddie’s essence twinkled in the air as the sun went down. It wasn’t like the others and there was no way she was letting Gunther get a taste.

“What happened?”

“Happy anniversary dear.”

“I feel different.”

“You lost your virginity.”

Tamsyn felt the warmth in her belly. The power of her husband’s virginity filled her with a power she’d never known. The books taught a virgin’s sperm much more powerful than normal sperm and she’d tested this premise many times in the past. Now it seemed virgin sperm given with love… a seeming exponential increase. Now for the hard part…

Eddie asked, “What’s wrong?”

“I’ve been lying to you, Eddie.”

“Lying?”

Tamsyn put a hand to her belly allowing the light to grow until a bright wisp of light emerged.

“What the hell?”

“I’ve pulled similar essences from hundreds of men over the past year. Of course, you aren’t like other men.”

Eddie stared at the light. Transfixed by what he saw. “I don’t understand.”

Tamsyn said, “I’m a witch, Eddie.

Eddie turning, his face falling away from the hypnotic light, “A witch?”

“Of a sort.” Tamsyn nodded at the light in her hand, “I can turn you into a girl but I need you to trust me.”

“Stop teasing.” Eddie’s eyes brightened.

“Do you trust me?”

Eddie nodded. “Of course?”

She held Eddie’s combat knife in her right hand. “I’m going to need a little blood.”

Jenny and Tamsyn sat on the balcony, both holding a cigarette. “I watched with my own eyes and I’m still having trouble believing that’s Eddie.”
Tamsyn said, “You don’t see the resemblance in the face?”

“Of course, I see the resemblance. He looks like a young Mrs. McClary.” Jenny looked through the window towards Eddie who was sprawled out on his back and as naked as the day he was born.

“Don’t ruin this for me.

“I can’t believe he’s got tits. How did you do it?”

“I told you. It’s magic but the spell only lasts until midnight.”

“Does Eddie know that?”

“I haven’t got the heart to tell him.”

Jenny peeked through the window to get a better look at the action until Eddie’s screams shook the window.. “He’s taken to it well.”

Tamsyn nodded, “Yes he has.”

“Wow.” Jenny laughed, “He’s starting again. He might be a bigger slut than me.”

Tamsyn shook her head. “Is Preacher Stevens ready?”

Jenny nodded. “He’ll be waiting at the bottom of the hill with Stewy at 11PM.”

“Good. Are you ready?”

Jenny smiled. “I’m always ready.”

Gunther stared impatiently as Tamsyn ate her dinner. “Stop staring. You know I can’t go out until dusk.”

“You better come back with quality seed or next week’s beating will be worse.”

Tamsyn waited from the vantage point of her bedroom until darkness covered the town. Long strands of black hair swirled behind as her wings took flight. She flew for hours. Floating through the clouds with the wind in your face, and world far below – she’d found nothing better with the exception of sex. If everything went right tonight, she’d never have another opportunity to fly.

She landed behind the group, making no sound as her feet touched, giving her ample opportunity to change into the form that wouldn’t scare the shit out of her ‘team’.

Tamsyn said, “Thanks for coming.”

Preacher Stevens jumped when he saw her, “Anything to save a lost soul.”

Tamsyn nodded, “I appreciate it.” She smiled. “Did you bring the holy water?”

Preacher Stevens held up a milk bottle full of clear liquid. Tamsyn reared back when he waved it around.

“Careful.”

Preacher Stevens said, “Sorry.”

Jenny said, “I’m struggling with the idea that demons are real.”

Tamsyn touched a spot on her arm. It had been three days since she’d met with Jenny and Preacher Stevens and told them. Preacher Stevens looked skeptical until a drop of holy water burnt a hole into Tamsyn’s skin.

“If things go bad, run. If he overpowers me, I won’t be able to control myself.”

Preacher Stevens gave a grim nod.

Tamsyn looked at the third member of their group, “You doing ok, Stewy?”

“Yes, Tamsyn.” Stewy’s eyes always looked glazed in her presence. He’d been a frequent target in her early days and she’d turned him into her thrall. If all went well tonight, perhaps she’d be able to fix Stewy too.

Preacher Stevens asked, “Do we need him?”

“Yes and trust me. You don’t want to know the reason.” Tamsyn said, hoping the preacher didn’t press further.

Tamsyn looked at Jenny who returned a grim nod.

Preacher Stevens said, “I wish you would have allowed me to bring more people.”

Tamsyn answered, “Gunther would sense a mob long before you crossed the door. Trust me. This will work.”

The taxi stopped in the driveway. Tamsyn exited the cab holding a bottle of champagne, with Jenny and Stewy close behind. Gunther’s eyes morphed into lizard-like slits when he saw the visitors. “What are you doing here?”

Tamsyn gave Gunther a kiss on the cheek. “You remember Jenny and Stewy.” She handed Gunther a bottle of champagne.

“Of course.”

Gunther set the bottle down. “We have an agreement and it doesn’t include bringing your slutty friends to the house on a Saturday.”

Tamsyn said, “It was Jenny’s idea. She didn’t believe me when I told her you had a twelve-inch cock. I told her you’d be glad to show it to her.”

Gunther sneered at the compliment. “Don’t we have more pressing business tonight?”

Tamsyn nodded, “That’s why I brought Stewy. You take Jenny as an appetizer. I take Stewy. We’ll meet in my bedroom for the main course.”

Gunther frowned when he looked at Stewy, “I thought you were done with this one. He’s barely worth the effort.”

“Come on, Gunther.” Tamsyn said, “Think of it as a double date.”

“You should have cleared it with me.” Gunther said, grabbing Jenny by the wrist as he passed. “Come with me.”

“Ewww. I like boys who play rough.”

The brute pulled her up the stairs and towards his room. Tamsyn closed her eyes. She didn’t deserve such a loyal friend. She turned to Stewy who stood silent.

“Let’s go.”

Tamsyn grabbed his arm and pulled him up the stairs. “We need to be quick.” I doubt Jenny can hold his attention for more than twenty minutes.” The comment was a reminder to herself more than information for Stewy. She read every thought in Stewy’s brain, and didn’t find much.

They found Edelle in the solarium, waiting naked on the bed.

“You know what to do, Stewy.” Tamsyn sent mental instructions to reinforce the command. Stewy began undressing at once.

Edelle said, “Something doesn’t feel right, Tamsyn.”

Tamsyn used a minor coercion spell as she spoke, “Trust me, Edelle. This is the only way if you want to remain a girl after midnight.”

Stewy dutifully joined Edelle on the bed as Tamsyn raised her hands. A second later the wisps of light she’d gathered from virgins all over the county grew bright, escaping their prisons of glass and flying into the air.

Gunther had grown lazy. While the seven deadly sins might put a priest on a path to become a demon, these failings don’t automatically become blessings when you join the other side.

He assumed her visits to the solarium were to visit her husband. A more attentive person would have felt the power she was gathering in the attic. Tamsyn had put a dampening spell on the entire floor to dissuade his interest but it was there just the same.

Light surrounded Edelle as Stewy continued to pump and Tamsyn spread her wings wide in hopes of undoing all her harm.

“Oh my god.” Tamsyn said, staring into the mirror. “It’s worse than I could have imagined. I’ve turned into your mother.”

Tamsyn could see Edelle wasn’t listening. The spell had switched their bodies. Edelle now wore Tamsyn’s skin. Tamsyn wore Edelle’s.
“I’m a woman.”Edelle choked out, her tears falling fast.

Tamsyn put her arms around Edelle, “You’ve always been a woman, my love. Now you’ve got the body to go with it.”

Edelle didn’t answer, the trauma of the experience clearly too much.

Tamsyn reviewed her plans and the spells she planned to cast until she heard the clocks sound midnight. The body she wore shifted into a masculine form.

A tall man in a black overcoat blushed at Tamsyn’s state of undress, “You’re Tamsyn?”

Tamsyn nodded. “Yes.”

He pointed at Tamsyn’s body. “And that’s Eddie?”

“Yes.”

Tamsyn fidgeted as she stared at the priest. It felt weird to stand in a man’s body. If she’d been born this way, the world might have been her oyster. Of course, there were downsides to being born a man. She traced a finger along the scar on Eddie’s forehead, safe in the knowledge the raised bump wouldn’t fill her with the same emotions without the memories of the event.

Tamsyn nodded. “Did you sanctify the house?”

Preacher Stevens said, “I spread holy water around the entire perimeter and blessed the house. The demon is trapped.

“Good. You should get out of here before Gunther comes downstairs.” Tamsyn looked up at the window for Gunther’s room. “I doubt Jenny will be able to hold him much longer.”

“You don’t think I’d leave you alone in the face of evil do you?.” Preacher Stevens pulled a Bible from inside his coat. “The church has gotten reports of demonic possession in the area for longer than you’ve been alive. I couldn’t live with myself if I allowed him to escape.”

Tamsyn shrugged. “It’s your funeral.”

Preacher Steven smiled as he adjusted his sacraments. “On your knees. Both of you.”

Tamsyn watched as the preacher’s lips began to move, “Are you seriously going to pray for us? For me?”

“Yes, Tamsyn.” Preacher Stevens placed a hand on Tamsyn’s forehead.

Tamsyn said, “We don’t have time for this. I’m a lost soul, remember?”

“How many times do I have to tell you? You’re part of my flock. And it’s in forgiveness where we find salvation.” Preacher Stevens motioned the sign of the cross, “And there’s always time for prayer.”

Tamsyn took a deep breath. Everything in her life had led to this moment. She’d made a lot of mistakes, but she’d always meant to do good. Even when she hadn’t. A look at her arm showed the burn mark had disappeared.

“I’ve got a full wine cellar in the basement.” Tamsyn stood, feeling like a burden had lifted from her. “If you make it through this, take your pick.”

“It’s a deal.”

Jenny shouted from the bedroom, appearing in the hallway holding a bedspread over her shoulders, “Don’t leave, Gunther. I was getting warmed up.”

Gunther didn’t look happy as he sniffed at the air. “I smell something foul.” He moved down the hallway with a purpose, stopping when he saw the small gathering at the bottom of the stairs.

“You brought a priest to face me?” Gunther jumped off the balcony, shifting into his true form before he hit the ground. “Pathetic.”

Preacher Stevens’ face turned to horror as he raised the large cross in front of his body. In his other hand he held the remnants of the holy water. “Stay back, foul beast.”

Gunther gave an amused grin. “I’m disappointed. Is this the best you can assemble? Your weak-willed husband, a sex starved whore, and an alcoholic priest?”

Tamsyn did her best not to react. Gunther looked at Edelle whose mind remained in a stupor.

“No pithy response? Curious.” He sniffed at Edelle then Tamsyn. He laughed. “Trickery. I see you’ve been practicing the craft.”

Tamsyn held the knife in front of her body.

Gunther laughed harder. “If you’ve been studying, you should know a steel blade can’t penetrate my skin.”

Tamsyn stared at the beast, “People have underestimated me all my life. Most have seen a pretty face or something worse. It used to bother me but I eventually realized these people name their own inadequacy when they placed a label on me.” She looked towards Edelle. “My husband was the first person who saw me. My life changed the day we met and he’s given me a life beyond my wildest dreams. The only thing I ever wanted was for us to settle down so we could live out our days in peace.”

Gunther said, “You belong to me, Tamsyn. I demand you take your place by my side.”

Tamsyn felt the pull of Gunther’s call but the power of Eddie’s virginal essence gave her a temporary boon.

“I belong to no one.”

She plunged the knife deep into her husband’s heart, and the pain forced her to her knees.

Chapter 27

Billy woke in darkness, seeing the outfit at the bottom of the bed. The panties went on easy, as did the bra. He put the nightgown over both then put on the slippers.

A look around showed no one in the room. He called out anyway. “Tamsyn? Tyler? Is anyone here?” The unmistakable sound of whispers stopped as soon as he spoke.

Billy exited the bedroom to find the candles in the house extinguished and the ballroom furniture rearranged. In place of the couch sat a large table with chairs on all sides.

Every candle in the place lit at the same time.

“SURPRISE!!!”

The sudden light blinded Billy for a moment. When his vision cleared he saw a dozen women staring at him.

“I’m sure you’re confused.” A gray haired woman spoke. Billy blinked several times to make sure his eyes weren’t tricking him.

“Mrs. Skelton?”

“It’s good to see you again.”

Mrs. Skelton taught 2nd grade at the town's elementary school. “What are you doing here?”

“Welcome to the sisterhood.”

“Huh?”

"You're part of our coven." A lady strode forward, holding out her hand. “You have powers. We will help you learn to control them.”

Billy stared at the familiar woman’s face. “Do I know you?”

Several women laughed. “Madame mayor, I think you’re going to need to spend more money targeting the high school before your next election.”

The woman held out her hand, “I’m Nicole Lambert.”

“Uhh …” Billy said, “I remember seeing signs with your face on them.”

You must see something.

Flashes of memory appeared. Terror filled Billy’s bones. He doubled over and knelt to the floor.

“You're having a vision. The first of many in the coming days. Try to slow your breathing and close your eyes.” Nicole moved her hand back and forth across Billy's back. “Tell me … what do you see?”

Darkness swirled a shouts and screams echoed through the black as an indistinct form began to take shape.

“I see Gunther.” Billy turned to stare at the tall man. “He’s yelling… at me…” Billy opened his eyes and looked towards the second floor balcony. “I se him. He jumped from the balcony wearing red eyes… and large horns.”

“Anything else?”

Billy closed his eyes. “I see a man dressed in black … And there’s a woman on the balcony … I see … Tamsyn … no wait … that’s me … oh god … there’s a knife.”

Pain exploded in Billy’s chest driving him to the floor as the searing pain spread from head to toe.

Mrs. Skelton asked, “Are you ok?”

“No.” Billy lay prone on the floor unable to move, the slightest movement making the pain worse.

That is my last memory.

Billy grabbed at his chest. He didn’t think the pain would ever stop. When he looked up he saw several of the women standing over him. Mrs. Skelton said, “The painful memories are the strongest.”

She held up a book. The leatherbound cover read – the Personal Diary of Mrs. Edelle Baldwin.

“If you want to know more. The relevant part of the story starts on page 58.”

I don’t have much to say about the next part. Even after all the years the memory makes me want to cry.

I watched as Tamsyn plunged my knife deep into her heart. Of course the truth was the knife entered my heart but it’s semantics at this point.

It’s impossible to describe the feeling when you watch your own body fall to the floor with a knife handIe sticking out of your chest. I’m sure I screamed. I suspect the others in the room reacted in a similar fashion.

I tried to run to her but something froze me in my tracks. I watched helplessly as Jenny ran down the stairs to administer first aid but it was too late.

Edward McClary, Jr. - Born: June 19, 1898 - Died: April 21, 1922.

The local papers said nice things. Most mentioned my war service and omitted the bad parts. Edward McClary, Jr. had a well-lived but short life with a second chapter only a special few ever knew.

It would have been a short chapter if not for Tamsyn. I felt her spirit enter my body and watched as my hands drew intricate patterns in the air and my mouth spoke in a language I did not understand. Preacher Stevens hit the demon with holy water while Tamsyn cast the binding spell. When the smoke cleared, Gunther lay helpless on the floor.

They say pride goeth before the fall. That was true here.

Gunther assumed Tamsyn couldn’t fight back after he stole her soul. The man didn’t understand Tamsyn’s strength. When the final battle came, she had more than enough power to stand up to him. I provided the soul.

He also forgot he had bound himself to Tamsyn long before the reverse was true. An employment contract is a weak bind as far as these things go but it was still in force on the day of the battle. Tamsyn bound herself to the house and then bound Gunther to her ensuring the demon could never leave. I must say, he’s not much of a butler, but he’s better than nothing.

Billy asked. “Can I go home now?”

The hall had started to clear. Most of the witches had left.

Mrs. Skelton replied. “I’m sure you have questions.”

Billy said, “I’m really tired.”

Nicole looked at Mrs. Skelton and back to Billy. “I’ve assigned Mrs. Skelton to stay in the house with you for the next few days.”

“Stay … in this house?” Billy looked from one end to the other. “No way. My parents would freak. And then there’s school … and my friends.” Oh shit. “Where’s Tyler?”

“Your friends are quite safe.”

Billy reached out with his mind, and sensed his friends growing distant. He jumped to his feet, covering the distance to the door in a matter of seconds.

Mrs Skelton called after him, “Don’t go outside…”

As Billy jumped off the porch, a shockwave pressed back, leaving him writing in pain on the wooden floorboards.

This is our limit. We can go no further.

The pain subsided the closer Billy drew to the front door. ““What’s going on?”

“Tamsyn is bound to this house and so are you.”

Billy picked herself up. “I don’t understand.”

Mrs. Skelton nodded, “Remember when you said you'd give anything to become a girl? There is always a cost when magic is involved.”

“No … no … no… .” Billy searched the hill, finding his friends growing more distant. Rocky carried a bag full of empty beer bottles. Symon and Quincy raced down the hill. At the back, Tyler spoke to a girl.

“Who’s with Tyler?”

“You don’t recognize her?” Mrs. Skelton said, “That’s Willa.”

“She looks like Tamsyn.”

“No … Billy.” Mrs. Skelton said, “You look like Tamsyn.”

Welcome Billy. I have a lot to teach you. We’re going to have a lot of fun together.

Chapter 28

“I brought tea.”

“I’m good, thanks.”

Books and papers lay spread out over the table.

“Have you decided?”

“Not yet.”

A thousand memories flooded in each one making it difficult to know where the old Billy ended and Tamsyn began. “She’s trying to erase me.”

“You’re learning my story. There’s a difference.”

The memories danced from good to bad to awful … the memory of dancing with Stewy at the dance club … the thought of killing Mr. McClary … the joy of feeding on a victim. The first few days were full of tears. The last few more downs than ups.

“I can’t do this.”

“Yes, you can.”
“Yes, you can.”

Mrs. Skelton asked, “Have you decided on a name?”

“Can I use Billie?”

Mrs. Skelton asked, “A clean break with the past would be a better path forward.”

“I agree.”

“Will you shut up?”

Mrs. Skelton gave a cross look.

“Sorry. I wasn’t speaking to you, Mrs. Skelton.”

“Of course.” Mrs. Skelton laughed. “I remember my time with Tamysn. She can be a handful at times. Perhaps it would be good if we took a break upstairs?”

“That sounds good.”

The house was far bigger than the outside perimeter suggested and underground tunnels added by the witches for their comings and goings added even more space. Every woman in the coven had started out like Eddie. A girl born in a boy’s body. They ended up like Tamsyn with one major difference. They all kept their souls during their time in the house.

The town looked the same as it had before, the only difference being the ability to see the coming and goings of the citizens without the need of a telescope.

He’d spent days watching his friends and staring at his old bedroom, now occupied by Willa. Tamsyn had lied, changing the records was the easy part, made easier when most of the town’s men are enthralled by the Sisterhood.

Mrs. Skelton smiled when she saw the ashtray on the balcony contained a few more empty crushed butts than the last time the pair had taken a break.

“The cravings get you?”

She shrugged.

Mrs Skelton nodded. “Willa’s purse was full of nicotine patches when she went down the hill. Learning to quit smoking is part of the process.”

“What do you think happened to Tamsyn?”

Mrs. Skelton answered a question with a question. “What do you think happened?”

“I don't know, my memories of Tamsyn aren’t what I’d expect. Everything happened over a century ago.“

“I am Tamsyn.”

Mrs. Skelton asked, “Why do you say that?”

“Tamsyn’s memories stop the night she died. It’s like the demon inside of me is a broken fragment.”

“You’re a broken fragment.”

Mrs. Skelton asked, “Do you have a theory?”

“I like to think she went to the next place … the good place. I mean ... Preacher Stevens gave her a blessing her right before the battle.”

“True.” Mrs. Skelton smiled. “That’s one way to think of it. Then again, suicide is a mortal sin.”

“She killed herself for a good cause. She and Gunther did terrible things. I mean, if a live grenade is tossed into a room full of people and one person jumps on it to save the others, is that a mortal sin?”

Mrs. Skelton nodded, “That’s a question for a theologist.”

“Replaying the story makes me feel sad.”

"Of course. There is a lot of sadness in Tamsyn's tale but I think it has a happy ending."

"You do?"

Mrs. Skelton looked down at the town. “I remember the day I climbed up the hill. I didn’t have any friends. I’d never been on a date. Thoughts of ending it crossed my mind more than once. Something called me up the hill. I’m old enough to have known Edelle when she was leader of the coven. She stood on this same balcony when I asked her a similar question you asked me today.”

“What did she say?”

Mrs. Skelton said, “She didn't have any answers either.”

“Oh.”

Mrs. Skelton wiped at her eyes. “Edelle told me the happiest time of her life was the decade she and Tamsyn spent together but as the 1920s turned to the 1930s, they realized they needed more. They had plenty of money, but they they weren't immortal and something had to be done. They ultimately decided to create a coven with a primary purpose of keeping the demon bound but it had a secondary goal as well -- helping those born like Eddie. Tamsyn never had any children in life. She's had many in death.”

“We are the daughters of Tamsyn.”

Mrs. Skelton nodded, “Edelle told me each of us come to this house, bringing with us fears and doubts, and those of us lucky enough to be brought into the coven are assisted into womanhood by Tamsyn. She helps each of us achieve our dreams, and in return we help her achieve her own. We are her legacy.”

“That’s a nice thought.”

“I thought so too.”

Chapter 29

“Have you picked one yet?”

Two dozen pictures sat on the desk. Behind the pictures were details about each candidate. She didn’t need to read the dossiers. She’d gone to school with all of them. She’d had classes with some but none of it mattered. Even staring at the pictures made her wet.

“Not yet.”

Gunther growled. “You can’t wait until the last minute. These guys will be starting up the hill soon. If we don’t discourage some of them, there’ll be fights.”

None of it felt real and others too real. At some point, their minds came together, fitting like a glove.

A long thin cigarette hung from painted lips as she took a long drag.

Gunther asked, “Do you want me to pick?”

“You know Gunther, there are times I preferred it when you didn’t speak.”

The man’s crotch showed a large bulge pressing against his pants. None of the boys in the picture would have anything close but she’d denied him the past week in a fit of pique. They both knew she wouldn’t make it much longer.

She shook her head, “I can choose.”

“Of course, ma’am.” Gunther took a step back.

The silence in the room felt heavy as the reality of her situation pressed down. She’d checked the math several times. The best math showed it’d be at least three years to learn all the spells and gather all the reagents, more likely four.

Her finger tapped on the geekiest of the bunch. Maybe he’d be a surprise. “After he’s gone I’d like you to come to my room.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Is that all, ma’am?”

“Call me, Tamsyn.”

“Of course.”

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